STAYING AWAKE

Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar built their houses on sand, did not have enough oil, and had been wise in their own eyes.  And now their foolish darkened hearts were weighed down with worries.  They had even fallen asleep while waiting.  While Melchior tried to stir up the gift within himself, they all drank some coffee to stay awake.

SCRIPTURE

Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life and that day does not catch you unexpectedly like a trap.  For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth.  Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:34-36) 

Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.  It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows, for so He gives His beloved sleep. (Psalm 127:1-2)

 FOOLISH WISDOM

A fire broke out in a house in which Melchior was fast asleep.  Caspar, Balthazar and some others tried to carry him out through the window.  No way out.  They tried to carry him out through the door.  No way out.  He was just too huge and heavy.  They were getting pretty desperate until finally Balthazar suggested, “Wake him up, then he’ll get out by himself.”

 MEDITATION

Something to ask yourself each time you think you need help or advice: “Am I sure I’m conscious?” (Anthony DeMello)