Homily: First Wednesday of Advent
First Wednesday of Advent (Isaiah 25:6-10) “Hope not Despair”
The Prophet Isaiah wrote in the second half of the 8th century B.C. At this time the Kingdom of Israel had been divided into two parts. The northern kingdom was known as Israel. The southern kingdom was known as Judah. Both these kingdoms were conquered by outside powers.
Isaiah prophesized in the northern kingdom of Israel. Israel was conquered by Assyria. Isaiah predicted this national calamity. Really there were three different writers named Isaiah. First Isaiah wrote at the time before the exile in Assyria. Second Isaiah wrote at the time of the exile. Third Isaiah wrote in a time after the exile.
We read in from First Isaiah today. Isaiah believed that all war was caused by injustice. The rich were taking advantage of the poor. Power was being misused in the government. Corruption was everywhere. Isaiah believed God was displeased and would punish Israel. Assyria was just an instrument that the Lord would use to exact punishment.
In the section that precedes what we read today there is an ominous description of what is going to happen to Israel. It says in Isaiah 24:21, “On that day the Lord will punish the host of the heavens in the heavens, and the kings of the earth on the earth.” Isaiah says, “the moon will blush, and the sun grow pale.” Other troubling signs are also described.
But a true prophet always ends with a message of hope. After all the turmoil and the battles and the suffering there will be a new day. That is what is described in the verses of Isaiah that we read today.
Isaiah describes a time when peace will come, and tranquility will reign. All peoples will stream toward Mt. Zion in Jerusalem and the human family will be united. Divisions will be no more. All people will be of one mind and heart.
Christians interpret his passage as a description of Jesus’ second coming. We are reminded in this Advent reading, not to fear the end of time, but to look forward to an idyllic time.
Reflection Questions:
- Is war caused by injustice? Is it a punishment that comes from God?
- What are the signs of hope that I see around me? Do I share that hope with those around me or just the bad things I see?
Dear Parishioners,
I would like to remind everyone that this Sunday at 4 p.m. we will be having a vespers service. We will be having sung evening prayer and a reflection on the Gospel of Luke. Luke is the Gospel that has the most stories concerning Jesus’ birth.
We especially reflect on the experiences of Elizabeth and Mary as they wait for the birth of their children. There was hopeful expectation as they experienced their pregnancies. The Advent season is spent in joyful anticipation.
Barb Roedel will be sharing her thoughts about Luke’s infancy stories. There will be an opportunity to share questions we have. Come and get ready for the coming of Jesus.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.
Fr. Mark