Word to the Wise
Tuesday, December 10, 2024 - 2nd Week of Advent - Tues
[Isa 40:1-11 and Matt 18:12-14]Like a shepherd he feels his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs, carrying them in his bosom, and leading the ewes with care... [Isaiah] "What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost." [Matthew]
The image of the "Good Shepherd" is a revered one in Christianity in no small part because it is truly the image of comfort and care. The portion of the prophecy of Isaiah that begins today's scripture is taken from a section traditionally called "the book of the comfort of Israel" because it begins with the words: "Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God." It is certainly a challenge to those who perform the service of "pastoring" the People of God. A common traditional expression in the world of journalism (and preaching) says, "Comfort the afflicted, and afflict the comfortable!"
In the first part of that expression: "Comfort the afflicted" we can include those for whom this season has lost its message of hope and anticipation because of a loss of some kind or simply being overwhelmed with the socio-cultural demands of the "holiday season." The second part of the expression might well apply to those who pay no attention, for various reasons, to Advent at all other than to note the change in vestments and the presence of an Advent wreath in the church. The pastoral role in Advent encompasses both parts of the expression, but the role is not reserved for ordained pastors alone. We can all have an "intentional" Advent by reaching out both to the "afflicted" and the "comfortable." It is a ministry of "restoration of hope!" We are called to it by virtue of our baptism. Both the stray and the flock need our care. AMEN