The Noontimes

When we experience the bleakness Isaiah described, we will want to remember that light will follow this darkness. Isaiah tells us of the coming cornerstone that will lie in Zion, in Jerusalem, the city he describes as destroyed in Chapter 29. This prophet cautions, warns, exhorts, and pleads with the people to avoid pacts with foreign, pagan tribes. He cries out against overconfidence in human help – either the help of others or our own over-valued talents. He foretells thunder, the whirlwind, the storm and the consuming flame. He describes blindness and perversity, fear and terror. When our circumstances are the most dire, we must remember that our lives in Christ promise a redemption that always accompanies suffering.

And so, we pray with Isaiah.

But a very little while, and Lebanon shall be changed into an orchard, and the orchard shall be regarded as a forest!

Make of us forests of your love, O Lord of hosts.

The deaf shall hear the words of a book; and out of the gloom the eyes of the blind shall see.

Make of us light to shine in all the dark corners, O Lord of hosts.

Those who err in spirit shall acquire understanding, and those who find fault shall receive instruction.

Make of us your wisdom, O Lord of hosts.

For the tyrant will be no more and the arrogant will have gone; all who are alert to do evil will be cut off . . .

Make of us your justice, O Lord of hosts.

When [Jacob’s] . . . children see the work of my hands in his midst . . .

Make of us your Holy Ones, O Lord of hosts.

They shall keep my name holy . . .

Make of us your mystical body, O Lord of Hosts.

Amen.

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A reflection written on January 30, 2008.

Image from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria_%28ancient_city%29