Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: December 13, 2024

Date: Friday of the 2nd Week of Advent/Memorial of St. Lucy

Scripture Text: Isaiah 48:17-19

Thus says the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I, the LORD, your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead you on the way you should go. If you would hearken to my commandments, your prosperity would be like a river, and your vindication like the waves of the sea; Your descendants would be like the sand, and those born of your stock like its grains. Their name never cut off or blotted out from my presence.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today is taken from the Book of Isaiah which was written by three separate prophets in three different generations. First Isaiah was written before the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon. This text is part of Second Isaiah generally thought to have written toward the end of the Babylonian exile. Third Isaiah was written after the return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile.

In today’s reading, the LORD speaks through the prophet to the people of Israel in exile promising the people His presence, His teachings and His guidance and prosperity for those who follow “hearken” to His voice and will.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

During this time of Advent, do I consider the LORD’s history of faithfulness? Do I allow it to tenderize my mind and heart, to open me to the LORD’s desire for me to have for life in abundance, and to an awareness of the LORD’s great love for me most especially in the gift of His Son?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, always and everywhere You are. Your love never fails, never wanes. You have given us guidance and purpose for our lives. Through the gift of your beloved Son, we witnessed true righteousness, love of You and love of one another. Send your Spirit to tenderize our minds and hearts, to open them more fully to receive your will and the grace to cooperate with your love. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.