Today’s reading from Isaiah begins with the word “comfort.” Isaiah is reassuring God’s people, who are returning from exile, of God’s faithfulness to them. The people are dispirited. They had lost hope and confidence in God.
But Isaiah promises them a new beginning where God will unite all people. Even the Earth, with valleys being filled and rugged land transformed into plains, will manifest God’s glory. The people are told to share in this joyous message, to be a herald of good news.
We will be celebrating the birth of Christ in a few weeks, which will mark a new beginning for all of us. This reading reminds us that God initiates new beginnings, but they cannot happen without us responding to them. We must be open to God’s grace and let go of everything that stands in the way of our openness to God’s coming.
Sometimes it can be difficult to open our hearts to God’s call. Like the people in Isaiah, we can lose hope in God due to life’s struggles. Yet the reading from Isaiah and the Gospel from Matthew remind us of God’s unending love for us. He cares for us as a shepherd cares for his flock, comforting and protecting us. That is good news!
During this Advent season, let us be sharers of God’s message of comfort and heralds of Christ’s coming.
Daily Reading
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Reading I Mi 5:1-4a Thus says the LORD: You, Bethlehem-Ephrathah too small to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for…
Saint of the Day
Blessed Jacopone da Todi
Jacopone da Todi, “Crazy Jim,” transformed from a worldly man to a devoted Franciscan, known for “Stabat Mater” hymn and spiritual courage.
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