When we look at the words of God, the messages of the prophets, we often find them filled with a dour tone, but there is always a seed of hope.
Over and over, I’ve heard that our parishes are declining, and for many places this is true. It’s true because we’ve forgotten Jesus’ teachings and set our own standards for success, and it’s to these situations that the prophet’s words apply.
But what if we threw open those church doors, welcomed everyone who entered like long-lost family members, made them feel so welcome that they told their friends? What if we went with them into the world, discovering those on the margins of life and brought the love of God to them? Whose feet will we willingly kneel before and wash as we have been washed?
The prophets speak harshly because we forget the teachings of love and service when we make the building our focus. But if we beat a path from our door and into the world, the world will follow us back, especially if we hug them and treat them as the long-lost family that they are.
Welcoming God, as you sent Isaiah, send us. Encourage us to look beyond our own perceptions to those who need to be reminded of your love in their lives. Amen. —