Memorial of St. Francis Xavier, Priest
Today’s passage from Isaiah is an insight to a messianic age when all is well and all is as God would have it be—as “in the beginning,” when creation and the world order have been restored and renewed.
The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him: a Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
A Spirit of counsel and of strength, a Spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD,
and his delight shall be the fear of the LORD.
But he shall judge the poor with justice and decide aright for the land’s afflicted.
Justice shall be the band around his waist, and faithfulness a belt upon his hips.
There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be filled with knowledge of the LORD.
The prophet masterfully speaks the message that God would have us hear (just as the Chosen People of old). This is what the long-hoped for Messiah would do, would accomplish for God’s people. In poetic and idyllic words, the prophet paints a picture that borders on fantasy, by modern thought. Are the things that Isaiah describes just that, fantasy? Beyond belief. These things will never happen — or so people will say.Perhaps the appeal of Advent is that we get glimpses of the indescribable. As if to ask the question: what would it be like if… If all God’s holy ones lived in harmony? If nations put care of the poor and needy ahead of power and greed? That people turn again and again to God, who cares deeply about us who are Children of God.
A line from another Advent hymn: Come, O long expected Jesus, born to set your people free; from our fears and sins release us, free us from captivity.
Reflection by Fr. Peter Ullrich, OSB
Posted in Articles for Advent, Articles for Advent, Daily Reflections