1ST WEEK OF ADVENT
On this mountain . . .
In Scripture, mountains are often seen as places of revelation, where heaven and earth meet. Think of Mount Sinai, where God spoke with Moses (Exodus 19:1-6). Or Mount Horeb, where the Lord met with Elijah (1 Kings 19:8-18). In these first days of Advent, Isaiah points us to the end of the story, the heavenly Mount Zion. There, God will live among his people forever. There, he will destroy the veil over all people. There, he will overcome death itself and provide a rich feast for his people.
In Jesus, these promises are fulfilled—and on mountains, no less!
He will destroy the veil (Isaiah 25:7). On Mount Tabor, Jesus was transfigured before his three closest disciples. The veil that separated us from knowing and hearing God was lifted briefly (Matthew 17:1-8). Now you can hear from God personally—in prayer, in Scripture, even as you drive to work or do the laundry. As St. Paul promises, “Whenever a person turns to the Lord the veil is removed” (2 Corinthians 3:16).
He will destroy death forever (Isaiah 25:8). On the mount of Calvary, death was defeated. As you look on Jesus in the manger this Advent, think of what he accomplished in his cross and resurrection. He suffered death and rose victorious, “trampling death by death” (St. John Chrysostom, Easter Homily). He also defeated the devil, who held the power of death and freed you from the grasp of sin. Through faith and Baptism, the floodgates of mercy have been opened. You have been reconciled with God and can live with him forever!
The Lord . . . will provide . . . a feast (Isaiah 25:6). On the heavenly Mount Zion, you will come to a feast in “the city of the living God” (Hebrews 12:22). But even today you can feast on the close relationship with God that Jesus offers you. Not only that, but you can also feast on his own Body and Blood in the Eucharist. You feast because God provides all of this for you in Jesus.
So rejoice today and shout for joy, “God . . . ; let us rejoice and be glad that he has saved us!” (Isaiah 25:9).
“Jesus, thank you for removing the veil and defeating death. I rejoice in your salvation!”
Psalm 23:1-6
Matthew 15:29-37
Isaiah 25:6-10