This Sunday John's Gospel points to how Jesus remains alive and present in the world today.

Transformation of water into wine is just one of Jesus' miracles: as we shall hear this Sunday, human lives also are transformed by his Spirit.

This Sunday we encounter true baptism – the outward rite of washing with water and the inner filling of the baptised person with the Holy Spirit.

What do we make of these strange visitors from the east who turn up bearing gifts for the babe?

Imagine: a child wanting to stay in church longer than the parents. That's the situation in our gospel reading this Sunday.

So what we will do with God's great gift in the year following December 25?

Thought for Sunday: What lifestyle changes may demonstrate our readiness for judgment?

The gospel this Sunday encourages us to continue living for the sake of the world which is not yet in the kingdom of God.

This Sunday, Advent 1, offers a stirring warning to stay awake – so don't be lulled by festive overtures.