The struggles of 2020 give way to an Advent season where we go seeking signs of hope. Seeking to be lifted up personally and communally. Here and now we focus our attention and prepare the way for the coming of the Lord Jesus into our lives.
Jesus is the sign of hope we are looking for. The prophet Isaiah reveals him and the wonders of his kingdom. The Spirit of Jesus is a divine force. For “the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him…a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of counsel and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.” (Isaiah 11:2-3) Gifts given to fulfill mission.
In today’s Gospel the seventy-two disciples have just returned after being sent on mission. They come back rejoicing for they encountered the Spirit of Jesus in their missionary experience.
Jesus gives praise to his Father for those He has chosen to reveal the wonders of the Kingdom. “I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and learned you have revealed them to the childlike.” (LK 10:21b)
His joy echoes the joy of his friends. His concern for their well-being. Jesus shows them, and us, how we are to be his disciples. We are to be open to hear and to see and to understand the message. Jesus trusts in the Father and is grateful for His wisdom. So now we are to trust in Him and be open to the gifts he gives each of us.
As we enter fully into the Season of Advent, let’s be grateful that we are blessed to hear the message of Jesus in the sacred Scriptures today. Christ is coming. He comes from heaven to earth to be with us! He is our hope!
