Word to the Wise
Wednesday, December 13, 2006 - Second Wednesday in Advent (St. Lucy)
[Isaiah 40:25-31 and Matthew 11:28-30]Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall, they that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar with eagles' wings, they will run and now grow weary, walk and not grow faint. Come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest.
One wonders at times if the crafters of the lectionary were demonstrating a subtle sense of humor! The juxtaposition of Isaiah with its vision of hope that impels a person forward and the gospel statement of Jesus about finding rest seems a bit too coincidental! Right now, a dear friend is backpacking her way around Southeast Asia for six months. Another friend about the same age (both in their 20 somethings) recently scaled Mt. Moriah in the Sinai - 3000 steps! I do not believe either of them have fainted, but I do believe they have grown weary. These are "short term" efforts, even if the experiences will leave lifetime memories for them. Indeed the scriptures from Isaiah and Matthew challenge us on the short and long term. On the short term, we may be staggering our way toward the celebration of Christmas (or through final exams), thanks to the burdens that our culture imposes on this season. Keeping our eyes fixed on the spiritual goal may keep us from growing too weary. In the long term, we are challenged to persevere in our Christian commitment through all the triumphs and sorrows, recognizing that we need the energy as well as the rest stops that the Lord provides. One wonders if Isaiah hands out the gatoraid and the Lord grabs us just as we are about to give out! AMEN
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