Thursday of the First Week of Advent
Does the Advent season have a split personality and a double purpose? Is Advent a time of constantly moving forward or is it a time of waiting? In other words, is there an emphasis on constant growth and moving deeper into the mystery of the Lord coming to us in history, mystery and grace? Or is there an equally important challenge of allowing the personal waiting and yearning amid emotional absence to be the process of purification necessary for perfect union?
Today’s assigned Scripture readings encourage us to ponder what perfect union with God’s might look like and how that might take place. The Prophet Isaiah uses a very tangible image of a fortified city with its strong walls and gates as a powerful gift God gives to the people. It is a call to move them out of their spiritual laxity and forward toward their expression of personal integrity and gratitude.
The expected goal of integrity and perfect union is dramatically described in the Gospel. Jesus pulls no punches when he says the person who only repeats the words “Lord, Lord” with a cheap and shallow faith has no tested foundation to stand on. It’s the wise person on the other hand who goes beyond words and yearns to build a rock foundation by choosing to do the will of God in every confrontation. The desire to stand strong is a gift, even though we wobble. God also loves us in the wobble.
Perhaps the answer to the question posed at the beginning will be as different as the inner fire burning in each person. Sometimes wisdom runs to embrace, and sometimes wisdom is best expressed in patient person waiting to be embraced.
Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB
Posted in Articles for Advent, Daily Reflections