2ND WEEK OF ADVENT

Fear not, I will help you. 

The people who first heard these words found themselves facing fearsome obstacles. After decades of exile in Babylon, they were about to embark on the long journey back to their homeland of Jerusalem. But what would they find when they got there? And how many hardships would they have to endure along the way?

Fully aware of the challenges they faced, Isaiah speaks God’s promise to his people: the Lord himself will help them. He had acted powerfully to liberate them in the past, and he promises to do so once more.

What does this mean? This prophecy is so lyrical. Mountains will be crushed before the people. Springs will well up from the dry ground. Verdant trees will thrive in the desert. In short, God will do everything he can to help them keep going—even when they see no end in sight. He will teach them to rely on him, and he himself will redeem them and bring them home. What a hopeful message!

This message is for you as well. God will help you overcome your challenges as you journey toward him.

Think about a challenge you are facing. What help do you most need today? You may see obstacles that lie in your way. But know that your loving and powerful God will help you. He will walk with you.

Sometimes he crushes a “mountain” that prompts you to overcome the obstacle of a negative pattern of behavior—along with a renewed trust in God’s grace to help you. He might cause a “spring” to well up from dry ground with a comforting sense of his love and presence that heals some inner hurt and helps you take steps to mend a wounded relationship. He could make you fruitful like a “verdant tree” by prompting you to help a friend in need or moving you to become more involved in a parish outreach.

No matter how God makes good on his promise to help you, trust him to do it. Believe that he can work miracles of healing and deliverance. And believe just as strongly that he is walking alongside you as you cross the desert and your journey unfolds.

“Lord, I am counting on you. I rejoice in your saving help.”

Isaiah 41:13-20
Psalm 145:1, 9-13
Matthew 11:11-15

WORD AMONG US