Reflections
Psalm 85: 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 (Read)
"Near indeed is His salvation." 
The Psalm is a prayer that God
will grant mercy and forgiveness
to the Israelites, and by extension
we are told that our own salvation
is near. “The Lord proclaims peace
to His people, glory dwelling in our land.”
The Prophet Isaiah tells us in today's
1st reading, our God declares, “Give
comfort to my people.” And Zion is told,
“Cry out at the top of your voice;
here is your God!" (Isaiah 40:1,6,9)
The Psalm is a promise of salvation.
“Near indeed is salvation for those
who fear Him.” St Peter too affirms
that the Lord does not delay in keeping His
promise in today's 2nd reading. (2 Peter 3:9)
And what should we expect?
Nothing less than the coming of the Messiah
himself. Our psalmist affirms, “Truth will spring
from the earth,” and for us this takes place
when the Messiah is born.
The psalmist prepares the way of the Lord,
as does John the Baptist in this week's Gospel.
As the Psalm says, “Justice shall walk before
Him and prepare the way of His steps.”
Amen
Discussion Questions for Reflection
1. The Psalm says, "Truth shall spring out of the earth." For us this verse
foretells the coming of the Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. What else about
the Psalm prepares us for the birth of our Savior?
2. Our psalmist says, "I will hear what God proclaims." This verse can be seen
as a reminder to study the Word of the Lord. Explain how your study of the Word
is strengthening your faith.
The Christmas season used to signify a time of pure coziness for me. Surely, it still does...as it does for many people, believers in Christ or not. Over the years, my study of the Word has brought about a deeper understanding of Christmas than just the warm and fuzzies.
ReplyDeleteThe word "Advent" itself has a double meaning. In Latin, AD VENIRE means "to come." The liturgical year ends and then begins with sobering readings on the end times. Lately, we've all read much on "no one knows the day or hour" or the end will come "like a thief in the night." We are reminded that as we walk through Advent, we are preparing to celebrate Christ's birth, but also, we're preparing for his return in glory.
Preparation for both of Christ's comings, requires us to make room in our hearts for him. How do we do that? We need to empty ourselves of our old and sinful ways. We must repent, as John the Baptist implores us to do.
Instead of looking upon repentance as something burdensome that we must do, we could look at it as part of the "good news" to be shared -- the literal meaning of "Gospel." Therefore, we should seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation more often this season, in our efforts to tidy up our hearts for him. His healing multiplies our capacity to receive him. To reflect him.
I like verse 12/13 of the Psalm: "Yes, the Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase." I hope the real estate of my heart will produce abundantly, through my renewed perspective on preparing for Christ's arrival.