We hear a short passage from the prophet Isaiah today, telling us that God is teaching us what is best for us, directing us in the way that we should go. Yet, as our modern American society often emphasizes individualism and freedom of expression, many of us don’t want anyone directing us and putting up parameters as to what we can do in our lives. Many in our society do not want to listen to God at all.
We hear from Isaiah frequently in Advent, as his message helps prepare us for the coming of the Lord. Through Isaiah, God tells us that if we follow his laws and commandments, then peace will flow in us like a river. In this context, I think of how the sacrament of reconciliation is an important part of our Advent journey, something that our Catholic faith calls us to do.
Today, we offer our monthly Healing Mass with the sacrament of the anointing of the sick. Pope Francis has remarked that the Eucharist is not a sacrament offered for those who are perfect in their journey of faith, but rather it is a sacrament that brings healing and wholeness in our lives as we strive toward perfection and as we strive to follow God’s law. We need healing in our lives on many levels: spiritual, physical, and emotional. God enters our lives today in these two wonderful sacraments and in his holy word.
May the voice of God that is calling out to us this Advent season reach our ears and our hearts. May we be open to the healing presence of the Lord that is trying to bring peace and fulfillment to our lives.
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