First Tuesday of Advent

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 1:21-31

Key Verse: Zion shall be redeemed by justice, and those in her who repent, by righteousness. ~Isaiah 1:27

The first chapter of Isaiah concludes with one final condemnation of the wickedness found in Judah and the consequence of such waywardness. If you’re feeling slightly battered, take heart: there is good news. But we have to be honest before we can receive it. We need to recognize the disastrous consequences of rebelling against the One who created us. In Isaiah 1 God speaks forth a word of judgment, but it is a word tempered by love and mercy and a desire for healing and restoration. This healing process comes by way of repentance, of seeking justice and righteousness (Isa 1:27). This is the way to blessedness, to being dedicated to and in communion with God. We must be a people who “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matt 5:6). Then will we find healing as we enter into the Divine Life. I am reminded of an ancient Eastern Orthodox hymn which includes the verse “The choir of the saints has found the fountain of life and the door of Paradise. May I also find the way through repentance, I am the sheep that was lost, call me up to You, O Savior, and save me.” The way of Advent, and truly of all life, is a way of repentance.

Reflect: Read the Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:1-12 and consider the way of life they outline. Compare it with what you have read in Isaiah 1 and ask God to teach you to walk in the way of repentance.

Merciful God, I turn to you as one who has wondered far from the path you have lain before me and I ask for forgiveness. I turn again to You and hunger to live a righteous life. Teach me to model my life after the example set by Your Son Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

For Further Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 Luke 20:9-18 Psalm 5