Advent 2

Isaiah 11:1-10; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.

The Old Testament reading and the Psalm once again describe a future time in which life will be better than it is now. I find two things of special interest this time through: the emphasis on the poor and the observation that it is only God who can bring these changes about. In both passages, just treatment of the poor is hailed as a hallmark of the coming age of the Lord. As if we needed any more indications that we don't live in God's kingdom, our government's treatment of the poor comes to mind. Sadly, the church often does little better. Yet, the second feature of the readings should give me hope, for that is what these words written long ago should do. For the Psalmist says "Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things." It is a mark of our fallen nature that we do not treat the poor with justice. Only God can restore our pure selves, selves that seek right treatment for all.

It is also interesting that while the OT readings hope for a better day, the NT readings examine the behavior of believers now. In Matthew, we see John the Baptist exhorting the religious leaders to "bear fruit that befits repentence." While John scolds the religious leaders, Paul provides gentler encouragement to the Romans. I don't often think of Paul as gentle, but he shows a deep understanding of the Roman believers' concerns here. Obviously one of the great revolutions of Christ's work is opening the grace of God to non-Israelites. With revolution often comes fear. How are the old believers to treat the new? How can the newbies feel accepted? Paul grants the Romans assurance of their place in God's plan and then builds on that foundation to encourage them to live in harmony with each other. In essence, God accepted you; accept each other.

However, the key to the fulfillment of the OT vision of a just future and to the following of Paul's commands is the power of God. All three of the non-Gospel readings carry the message that none of these good things will come about save for the intervention of God.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

¶ 8:19 AM