First Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10

Reflection:

In this passage, the Prophet Isaiah speaks of a time when the Davidic kingdom would be restored and fulfilled. The “stump of Jesse” refers to the royal line of David, for Jesse was David’s father. The imagery of a “stump” implies that the line would be cut off (which, in fact, happened within a couple hundred years after the time of Isaiah). Yet, according to Isaiah, there would come a time when the line would be restored, when “a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse.” In a miraculous way, therefore, the line of David would be brought back to life in the form of a new Davidic king, the Messiah.

Isaiah goes on to describe the attributes of the one who would restore the line of David. “The spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him,” he prophesies, followed by listing what traditionally have been called the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the LORD). Isaiah illustrates that the Messiah would bring about peace through using the stark imagery of those who are typically enemies being at peace with one another (e.g. “the wolf shall be the guest of the lamb”). More striking, especially to the original readers, is Isaiah’s indication that Gentiles (i.e. non-Jews) would be drawn into the kingdom. At that time, Gentiles were not considered part of God’s chosen people by the Jews and so the idea of Gentiles being welcomed into the kingdom of God would have been shocking to them.

This prophecy, of course, is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Messiah and heir of David, who came to establish the kingdom of God and to reign as the eternal King of Kings. He is the Prince of Peace who makes possible the radical peace described here and welcomes all nations (Jew or Gentile) into His Kingdom.

Second Reading: Romans 15:4-9

Reflection:

Continuing with the theme of peace and unity from the first reading, the Apostle Paul exhorts the Christians in Rome “to think in harmony with one another.” This exhortation was likely necessary due to the mixed group of Jews and Gentiles in the Church in Rome. The status of the Gentiles in the Church was a cause for division in Paul’s time. Paul makes clear that with the coming of Christ the Gentiles can worship alongside the Jews in their newfound faith in Jesus, for this was prophesied in the Old Testament (including in the first reading).

Today, there is still the challenge to be unified in the Church, although the dividing lines are different than between Jews and Gentiles. We too ought to be challenged by Paul’s words “to think in harmony with one another.” As Christians, we find our unity in the person of Jesus Christ, who is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). The more we conform our lives to Him by following His teachings, the more unified we will be, so we may “with one voice glorify God.” Let us, therefore, strive to follow Paul’s exhortation: “Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God.”  

Gospel Reading: Matthew 3:1-12

Reflection:

John the Baptist was the forerunner to Jesus, the Messiah. His role was to prepare the way for the greater one to come after him. He did so by calling the people to repentance (meaning, true sorrow for sin with the resolve to turn away from it and toward God). In other words, he called them to prepare their hearts for an encounter with the Lord. John baptized as a sign of acknowledgement of sin and conversion of heart toward God. He pointed the way and announced, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” Through Jesus, the Incarnate Son of God, the kingdom of God has been established.

Like in the first two readings, John here indicates that Christ’s kingdom will include the Gentiles. In fact, he warns the Pharisees and Sadducees that they should not assume they are “okay” because they are descendants of Abraham. Gentiles are also welcome into the kingdom of God. Essential to the message of John the Baptist was a call to repentance, which he says is evidenced by “good fruit” in one’s life. Both Jews and Gentiles alike (including us today) can come to peace with God through repentance of sins and reception of the grace and mercy that He freely offers through Christ. Repentance is not optional in following Jesus as a disciple. It is an essential part of the Christian life.

Application:

  • The Apostle Paul exhorts Christians to “welcome one another, as Christ welcomed you.” Take steps to welcome those around you to help build peace and unity through Christ this Advent.
  • Do an examination of conscience. Prayerfully reflect on what ways you have not been faithful to Christ. Bring the sins that come to mind to God in prayer, confess them to Him, and ask for His forgiveness. Heed the exhortation of John the Baptist: “Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” If necessary, visit the Sacrament of Reconciliation.