Journey to Wholeness
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
Isaiah 35:2b
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon.
In the Hebrew Scriptures, the majestic, snow-capped mountains of Lebanon—rich in cedars and fruitful orchards—shaped the Israelite vision of the Promised Land.… Read the rest
Like the crocus it shall bloom abundantly,
Isaiah 35:2a
and rejoice with joyful song.
The Hebrew word translated variously as “crocus,” “meadow saffron,” “rose,” “narcissus,” “lily,” or “flower” (chabatstseleth) is of uncertain derivation.… Read the rest
The wilderness and the parched land will exult;
Isaiah 35:1
the Arabah will rejoice and bloom.
East of Eden, the whole earth is parched and barren, thirsting for the vivifying stream of the Spirit of God.… Read the rest
Zephaniah 3:14-18a
Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:10-18
On Gaudete (“Rejoice”) Sunday, halfway through Advent, God asks us, “What do you want for Christmas?”… Read the rest
Baruch 5:1-9
Psalm 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11
Luke 3:1-6
Israel’s exodus from Egyptian slavery into the Promised Land of “milk and honey” epitomizes humanity’s exodus from sin into the Promised Land of transfigured holiness.… Read the rest
Today’s prophecy and tomorrow’s fulfillment may look like exact opposites. In the first reading, God speaks to Jeremiah amid national chaos and despair.… Read the rest
If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Marana tha.
1 Corinthians 16:22
The one who gives this testimony says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”… Read the rest
… Read the restA man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.
… Read the restThe beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way.
… Read the restJesus said to his disciples: “Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. It is like a man traveling abroad.