ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 26, 2022
In worship tomorrow, we will hear words from the Prophet Isaiah, chapter 40. The powerful proclamation begins with the words:
A voice cries out: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”
It is a declaration of expectation, a hopeful anticipation of something amazing about to emerge. I am reminded of the Catholic writer Edward Hays, who wrote in his book, The Pilgrim’s Almanac, that “thirteen Americans are presently frozen in hope of one day coming back to life! Why wait to come alive? The season of Advent is a winter thawing of frozen hearts by prayer, charity to the poor and needy, and an awakening of a love for God. There is perhaps no more certain way to come back to life.”
I would add that even in southern Texas, there are many who need to have their hearts thawed. Tomorrow marks the beginning of the Advent Season, the season in which people are warmed up and unleashed on the world.
Let the warmth of your spirit move over me, O God, so I am no longer lukewarm toward you and the message of the season. Amen.
