Advent Weekday December 20 #1

“O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!” God loves children and the birth of an infant is the promise of future blessings for the human race. The Spirit works in those God has blessed, making all things new. Because God is faithful and true, we can be confident that he will accompany us all the days of our lives. The pledge is sealed in the blood of David’s son, the sprout from the root of Jesse. The prophet Isaiah wrote: “In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner of salvation for the peoples; the nations will look to him for guidance, and his resting place will be glorious” (Is. 11:10). In this long-awaited offspring of David, God’s love and compassion will be made tangible and accessible to all people. The shoot of Jesse’s stem is rooted in the faith of the people. The fruit of this tree will nourish all people as they journey to their eternal home.

The author of the Letter to the Hebrews wrote: “In a very short time, he who is coming will come and will not delay” (Heb. 10:37). Saint Peter offers this delightful caveat: “Do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:8-9). The Lord is quick in showing mercy and offering them the fullness of life. It is we who are slow to seek mercy and be fully alive.

O Root of Jesse: O Flower of Jesse’s stem, you have been raised as a sign for all peoples; kings stand silent in your presence; the nations bow down in worship before you. Come to deliver us, let nothing hinder us from coming to you.