Memorial of Saint Lucy, Virgin, and Martyr

Advent! The prophet Isaiah! The marvelous imagery he uses to share his good news and messages of hope. I love this time of the liturgical year.

To my great joy, this prophet was a nature lover. We have already heard this Advent from Isaiah how “swords will be made into plowshares; spears into pruning hooks;” ‘the wolf will lie down with the lamb, the calf with the lion;” “a feast of rich food and choice wines;” Lebanon changed into an orchard;” “rain for the seed;” “every valley filled in;” they shall “soar as with eagles’ wings.” In the day of the Lord.

Today’s good news from Isaiah encourages us with vivid imagery: if we remain faithful, our prosperity will “be like a river,” our “vindication like the waves of the sea.” The Lord’s presence will always be there. “Hearken to my commandments.”

If you go about some part of your day – as I do – with the bible in one hand and the daily paper in the other, there is plenty to be worried about, even at times, being on the edge of hopelessness. Unending wars! Native peoples and migrants were forced from their homelands. Abortions and widespread child and spousal abuse. Victims of injustices. The impact of climate change on the poorest of the poor. And on and on.

(It is worth noting that these atrocities occurred during Isaiah’s time and Jesus’ time on this earth.)

And yet, it’s Advent, the annual call to hope and joy. For Emmanuel (God with us) is coming. Rejoice! Be glad! Be Christ’s peace, goodness, love, and compassion wherever you find yourself. For, “grace will bat last” – to quote a line from a recent essay by Ann Lamott.

Let Us Pray:

Dear Lord, we invoke the memory of Saint Lucy. May we be filled with generosity and courage so that, like her, our lives might point to the “light of Christ” during this Advent season.