Faith, expectancy, looking forward in hope are common themes of today's Mass readings. In the gospel, after Jesus talked about being always ready and waiting for the Lord's appearance, Peter asked whether what Jesus said was meant for everyone. Jesus did not give a "yes or no" answer. Instead He spoke about responsibility and being prepared. We're not just "waiting around" for the Lord's coming, a kind of passive expectancy (like waiting for tomorrow's sunrise). Rather, we should be preparing to welcome Him, just as we quickly recognise and greet a dear friend. It's an active kind of expectancy, a desire. Everyone receives the Lord's offer of abundant grace, but not everyone seems to accept or value it. The gifts we receive, even if we don't acknowledge them, are a trust and responsibility given to us. So, the more we appreciate and treasure these gifts, the more conscious we will become of His constant love and care, and become more responsive and responsible. Then, in going about ordinary daily life, engaged in routine mundane things, we will have a certain awareness of His 'being there', and a ready eagerness to thank and praise Him. We will find ways of recognising Him, and of being ready to greet Him when He comes, even if we're not expecting Him just at that moment or time.