In California, where we have earthquakes, floods and fires, we're used to being told to be prepared. We know we should have three days of water and non-perishable foods, flashlights and portable radios stored in case of a prolonged power outage.

These disasters can strike at any time. We're not likely to have adequate advance warning to make ready.

Jesus' message to his followers is the same in today's Gospel. "There will be signs in the sun, the moon and the stars," Jesus says. "And on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright."

The end of the world as we know it can come at any time. What are we to do? "Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent."

Natural disasters, say FEMA and the National Weather Service, aren't nearly so bad if you are prepared. It is also the message of Jesus when it comes to spiritual upheavals.

If you're like me, you rarely expect trials and tribulations in your life. I'm never prepared to face serious adversity. And I certainly don't pray for the strength to endure something that I don't even expect to happen. Once disaster strikes in my life, I pray like heck for it to end.

Advent, of course, is all about preparation. We remember how people prepared for the arrival of Christ in the first century, and we remember how Jesus challenged his followers to always be prepared to recognize him and continue to follow him after he ascended. We remember these things so that we can be prepared to welcome Jesus into our lives and our experience now.

Jesus suggests that if we are prepared for what appear to be disasters in our lives, we may be ready to see that these crises are a means for God to work in the world. "The powers of the heavens will be shaken," he says. "And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory."

This is typically the last thing we think when our worlds are falling apart --- that Christ is present in his glory. But it just might be true.

God works through blessings, and God works through trials. Advent challenges us to be prepared to embrace and experience the presence of God, whether through a wonderful blessing or serious hardship. The only way we will be able to see the work of God in either case is if we are "vigilant at all times and pray."

I'm not much good at preventative prayer. But as I see the trials and tribulations in our world and in my one life, I need to rethink this posture. Rather than lament the misfortune I see, or just feel sorry for myself, I just might be able to see how God is at work though adversity.

Bill Peatman writes from Napa.