In today's readings we heard about the comfort, joy and power of God.
Is there any one who do not actually want to be comforted?
Is there anyone without the desire for peace and tranquility?
I think the answer will be a big "NO".
Even the terrorists and rebels seeking for "peace and tranquility" from their own method and idealism, which is often against humanity.
Today's readings are risen in the context of the political and spiritual life of the Israelites. They were a people who sought comfort and peace, which were rare experience. They were often slaves, and have served others.
It was actually a paradox - a contradiction;
because they were the chosen people of God.
Nevertheless, they had to suffer a lot because of there deeds...
There is a proverb in Judea:
"It is easy to get Israel out of exile, than to get the exile from Israel."
Then this unrest and misery and desolation touched their lives from Generation to Generation. They often lived in the memories of their bad experiences. Even some religious ceremonies, e.g.: Passover, served for it.
They sat in a deep abysses of dissatisfaction and helplessness.
Because their life was not in the "plane" but it was full of "hills" and "valleys".
We know those who goes through such a hills and valleys will be tired.
He finds his comfort when he comes to the plane surface - if he can breathe easily.
The Israelites were having such a life.
John the Baptist and his baptism was received quickly, mainly because of this life struggles; because they were yearning for peace.
Gospel tells us; whole Judea and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem came to him and received baptism of John.
Because they put their hope in him.
They could feel the divine proximity and power that is coming to their lives.
They could feel the beginning of divine peace and consolation.
John now becomes the messenger of peace - the messenger of God.
He says, "One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals.
I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the holy Spirit."
For sure, that was a joyous message for Israel.
They have found their hope for peace and solace again.
In this second Week of Advent we Christians have 2 fold tasks:
1. we are invited to rise up from the depths of our discontent. Because a savior is promised for us. He is more powerful than all the rulers of the world. In Christ, we experience this peace.
2.We are called to be messengers of peace. There are countless people in our midst, seeking simply a word of consolation and gratitude. Charity does not always mean some financial aid; No, it can be a good word or be an encouragement.
Are we ready to take these two tasks,
then we are in Advent - God is near to us:
then we are on the way to Christmas.
May God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil
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