Word to the Wise
Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 2nd Week of Advent - Wed
[Isa 40:25-31 and Matt 11:28-30,269]He gives strength to the fainting; for the weak he makes vigor abound. 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 as with eagles' wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint. [Isaiah] "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy and my burden light." [Matthew]
DECEMBER 13 ST. LUCY, virgin and martyr
In this season of expectation and hope, Isaiah and Matthew give us examples of what we can expect and hope for in the future beyond the birth of Jesus. A bit earlier in the passage from Isaiah, the prophet speaks to a complaint that God is disregarding his people by showing what God will give to those who remain steadfast in the effort to be faithful. Matthew has Jesus offering comfort in the midst of that effort.
The effort can be considerable in the way our American culture celebrates "the holiday season." The message is more economic than spiritual. Personal loss becomes magnified in the face of all the "Fa-la-la-la-laaaa!" The effort to join in "the spirit" seems too much at times. But small steps can be big ones if made in faith. Even if there is no tree or lights, perhaps putting up a simple manger scene where it can be seen daily can help us find that strength and rest that can be missing. Small acts of kindness toward someone whose suffering denies them any "cheer" at this time can be a source of hope to both giver and receiver. Christ can be born in many ways.
At the end of this week, we will be celebrating "Gaudete Sunday" (Rejoice!). Can we find a way to help others experience that joyful expectation? Isaiah and Jesus will offer us strength and comfort if we try. AMEN