THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Monday in the second week of Advent, 2021

Isa 35:1-10

Ps 85

Luke 5:17-26

St Nicholas

Strange things

Dear friends in Christ, St Nicholas was Bishop of Myra in present day Turkey and has been venerated in the Church since the 10th Century particularly for his help to the poor. He is the patron saint of pawnbrokers, sailors and children. His insignia of three golden balls represent the three purses of gold he is said to have given secretly to a poor man who could not afford dowries for his three daughters. He is the popular Father Christmas.

In the first reading of today (Isaiah 35:1-10), the prophet talks of strange things that God will bring about. “The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the lily it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing.” It is strange to have someone speak in these terms, but even more so, to see it happen. But the prophet gives the reason, “Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, ‘Be strong, fear not! Behold your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come to see you.’” This is a message of hope, but something strange, even to those who received it. Isaiah looks to the time, when God will make everything whole again. Wholeness in all its dimensions—material and spiritual. It is a wholeness, that does not stop with human persons alone, but also with the natural world. Anyone in the time of this prophet would have questioned when this will take place.

In the gospel of today (Luke 5:17-26) the evangelist provides an answer. It is Jesus, who brings about that divine wholeness. It is a wholeness that had drawn even the most hardened of hearts, to come and listen and witness his miracles. The Pharisees and the teachers of the law, were among those who were listening to Jesus, when a paralytic was brought to him. This paralysed man could represent broken humanity. He couldn't seek help himself, he had to be helped to Jesus, and those who brought him, would not give up in the face of the obstacles they encountered. They did something strange, lowered the man through the roof, after making an opening. This strange faith made Jesus say, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” That obviously didn't go down well with the Pharisees and the teachers, who thought it was blasphemy. However, Jesus went ahead to ask the man, “I say to you, rise, take up your bed and go home.” A strange thing happened, right before everyone, he was healed, and he walked home. Do not be afraid to profess your faith in Jesus. No matter the present challenges, he is willing to do the strangest thing in your life. Do not be afraid, trust always in his love.

Let us pray: O Lord, lay your healing hands upon your children and make whole what is lacking. Amen. 

+Remain blessed