Ecclesiasticus 48:1-4, 9-12
Today there is a gear shift in the weekday Liturgy of the Word as we move from Isaiah’s prophecies to a selection of texts from a range of Old Testament books. The focus of the during Second Week of Advent has been preparing the way of the Lord. We look back to the Old Testament promise that Elijah would come at the end of time. Elijah would come and unify the people: ‘turn the hearts of fathers towards their children, and to restore the tribes of Jacob.’
Our Gospel text from Matthew picks up the theme of Elijah’s coming. The disciples ask if Elijah has come already. Jesus tells them that Elijah came in the form of John the Baptist. People didn’t recognise him.Throughout the Scriptures we read the stories of those who failed to recognise God’s signs. If we imagine ourselves living in Biblical times, could we be sure that out hearts would have been attuned to God’s revelation?
The readings of this past week speak of God’s closeness. Our God has a plan beyond our imaginings. Each day we are invited to trust in his promise and to live lives that reflect this hope. We can help each other to stop and be attentive. We can help each other to hear the prophetic voices and to nurture the seeds of God’s kingdom.
How can you be open to the signs of God’s kingdom today?