The verse from Isaiah 26:8a, “Oh Lord, we wait for you,” resonates in our contemporary world, marked by cynicism, materialism, and the worship of idols. It prompts us to examine our own readiness for the divine and ponder whether, if God sent another Messiah, we would treat her/him with any more respect than we did Jesus.
The Beatitudes, with their emphasis on humility, compassion, and peacemaking, offer a stark contrast to the values often prioritized in today’s society. Would we truly embrace the message of blessed are the poor in spirit, the meek, and the peacemakers? Or would we, like the crowds of Jesus’ time, be more drawn to the allure of power, wealth, and worldly success?
The question of what we can do “more than wait” is crucial. While waiting for the Lord is essential, it should not be passive. Our waiting should be active, expressed through our actions and our commitment to creating a more just and compassionate world.
Perhaps the most meaningful resolution we can adopt for the coming year is to actively work towards creating a more welcoming environment for the divine. This can be achieved by:
- Embracing the Beatitudes: Striving to live out the values of humility, compassion, and peacemaking in our daily lives.
- Loving our neighbors: Showing kindness and compassion to those around us, regardless of their background or beliefs.
- Feeding the hungry: Addressing the needs of the poor and marginalized in our communities.
- Promoting social justice: Working towards a more equitable and just society for all.
While we wait for the Lord, we can each play a role in preparing the way. We can cultivate within ourselves the qualities of humility, compassion, and love, and strive to create a world that reflects these values. By doing so, we not only prepare ourselves for the coming of the divine but also contribute to the betterment of humanity.
Ultimately, the waiting for the Lord is a collective endeavor. It requires each of us to do our part, to live out the values of the gospel, and to work towards creating a world that reflects the love and compassion of God.
Beautiful message written by a more beautiful heart!