Wednesday Of The 1st Week Of Advent 

Isaiah 25:6-10
Psalm 22(23)
Matthew 15:29-37

A REMARKABLE DISPLAY OF COMPASSION

What aspirations and anticipations shape your spiritual journey? In the first reading from Isaiah, a prophetic voice heralds the promise of future restoration and redemption. The Gospel passage from Matthew uniquely illustrates Jesus as a profound figure of healing and sustenance. In this narrative, Jesus ascends a mountain—a significant location symbolizing divine revelation—and is approached by a multitude afflicted by various ailments: the lame, blind, deformed, and mute. In a remarkable display of compassion, Jesus heals them all, prompting the onlookers to glorify the God of Israel.

Following this healing narrative, Matthew transitions to recount the miracle of the feeding of the multitudes. Here, Jesus is compelled to provide nourishment for the people after observing their extended presence with him—“My heart is moved with pity… for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat.” This moment underscores the interplay between spiritual and physical sustenance in Jesus’ ministry.

Advent serves as a liturgical period prompting a deeper reflection on our Christian lives. The scriptures presented during today’s Eucharist, alongside the testimonies and lived experiences of Jesus’ followers, call us to engage actively in the mission of healing and reconciliation within a divided world. Through this commitment, we are assured that Jesus will bestow upon us a profound sense of peace and joy.

Fr Joseph Osho