Crisis is the birthplace of hope
In last week’s readings, Ezekiel 34, the King of the universe identifies himself as a Shepherd whose role is to care for his flock. He gathers those who are scattered and lost; He heals the wounded and the sick. In fact, the people of Israel knew very well that God always comes to their rescue in times of difficulties. God will always be there for us. Even God’s anger against our wrong-doing is a sign of his love for us. God cannot forget us in times of crisis. In our times of troubles, God comes to us. In our sorrows and griefs, God comes to us. In times of problems, namely sickness, financial troubles, loss of loved ones, God will be there for us (Romans 8:31). God comes to us. He comes to us to console us; to strengthen us; to promise us a better future and everlasting life. Paul is grateful for all the gifts of God to the community. The gift of the Holy Spirit is given to them in order to strengthen them as they await for the coming of Jesus the Messiah, the fulfilment of our Hope. God we need your Holy Spirit. Lord, we long for your coming.
In this time of instability and many troubles, we long for a better future; a safer world; a stable economy and meaningful relationship. Yes, Jesus will come. We must stay awake. He will come to fulfill our deepest longing and our hope for the fullness of life. It is through pains, and death that Christ saves us. He comes to us. This is the spirit of Advent; a spirit of hope. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer 29:11). Indeed, this Advent; a time to stand still; a time to yearn; a time to long for a God who is so faithful to us. A God who will come and rescue us in times of troubles. The people of Israel in the first readings long for the coming of their Redeemer. “Tear down the heavens and come down” Yes Crisis is the birthplace of hope. Any occasion of pain or any difficulty is an entry point of God’s grace! Are you in trouble, sick, going through hard times, be assured, God will come to us to save us! But are worthy to welcome him in our heart: "Lord I am not worthy to receive you in my Lord"
May we please cleanse our hearts to prepare ourselves for Christ coming. Paul in 2 Cor 13: 5 says: "Examine yourself to see whether you are holding to your faith" May we do this examination throughout this week!
Happy first week of Advent!
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO sac