During advent the first readings are from first Isaiah, mostly composed before 700 BC, a period when Israel was under attack from Assyria. Isaiah is critical of attempts by Israel’s kings to control their destiny – he urges them to place their faith and trust in God, and in His promises to David. But God might use Israel’s enemies to cleanse his people.
Nevertheless the people will survive through a remnant, like a stump of a tree, from which will come an ideal ruler in the future. In today’s reading Isaiah looks forward to a peaceful time when all nations will be attracted by Israel’s behaviour to accept God’s authority, centred on Mount Zion in Jerusalem.
The Psalm celebrates arriving in Jerusalem, goal of pilgrims and seat of government.
In his letter to the Romans Paul has been drawing out the implications of his image of Christians as all parts of one body. Since we are therefore dependant on each other we have a duty of love for each other. Judgement will come at any time, so we must live at all times as if all our actions are visible to all.
In Matthew’s gospel, speking on Mount Olivet just before the Last Supper, Jesus reinforces the need to “stay awake”, ready for the Lord’s coming.
Psalm Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say: Let us go to God’s house”.
(Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 121(122); Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:37-44)