There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain;
for the earth shall be filled with knowledge of the LORD, as water covers the sea.
A dvent is sent to renew a joyful, optimistic hope as winter descends upon us, and it opens with today's fantasy of carnivores and their prey eating grass together, and children playing near poisonous vipers. If the images are more cartoon than real they are nonetheless joyous, carefree, and delightful.
Isaiah's promise entails little cost to the poor and the land's afflicted; its fulfillment must disappoint only the ruthless and the wicked. They will know the joy of a woman recently delivered of a chubby, healthy, smiling baby.
When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. (John 16:21)
Isaiah's promise also describes One who is blessed with the spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel and of strength. He will enjoy a Spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD. "And his delight shall be the fear of the LORD."
We may be more familiar with Isaiah's "man of sorrow, accustomed to infirmity." But a complete human being -- a true savior -- must be more than a romanticized "man of constant sorrow." He must be born of a woman, enjoy breath and life, eating, dancing, and camaraderie. He must be a person and not a persona. He cannot be a symbol, icon, or image. If he is heroic he is also one like us in all things.
Jesus promises that, as we come to know him we may be in anguish now,
But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. On that day you will not question me about anything. (John 16:22)
This is the promise of Advent and Christmas, and the reason for the season.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.