Second Sunday of Advent – Dec 8, 2024
In stark contrast to last Sunday, today’s set of readings are some of the most hope-filled and consoling poetry in our lectionary. From the lavish imagery of Baruch, to the tender affection of Paul for the Philippians, and culminating with Luke’s lineage of leaders situating the lowly John the Baptist in history, we get a kind of “overview” effect from God’s perspective. To Jerusalem mourning her exile, the prophet offers comforts by declaring what God sees—a return home and a sure way forward in joy.
From God’s viewpoint, the world and all its creatures are destined for the joy of salvation.
When we are wrapped up in our own misery and see only conflict and turmoil all around us, it is easy to close in on ourselves and give up. Our efforts can feel futile against such a bleak future, and we stop feeling any kind of hope for ourselves or for others.
However, from God’s viewpoint, the world and all its creatures are destined for the joy of salvation. The call to “prepare the way of the Lord” is not an ultimatum. There is no “or else.” There is simply the truth that with faith, “all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” Paul says it plainly: “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:6).
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