Read Isaiah 40:1-11, Ps. 96:1-3,10-13, Matthew 18:12-14
“So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” (Matthew 18:14)
Today’s First reading is a message of God to us. It is a Christmas message of glad tidings. It says: “Comfort my people.” We have often acted like stubborn sheep who despite hearing the voice of the shepherd decides to go astray. But God never leaves us at our own peril. He comes searching for us.
God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked. For God to come in the form of a baby is a testimony to the compassion of God. When we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate God in the form of a baby who comes not to judge but to invite us to repentance.
Let us not be like stubborn sheep refusing to follow the shepherd back to the fold. No matter how sweet sin is, it is never sweeter than righteousness. Our life is short as Isaiah says: “All flesh is grass.” What then will it profit me, if I become stranded in muddy waters deceiving myself it is chocolate when Jesus has invited me to a fountain flowing with pure water?
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, as you prepare to be born again in our hearts this Christmas, may we too become born again in the Spirit. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Ambrose, Bishop, Doctor (Memorial). Bible Study: Isaiah 40:1-11, Ps. 96:1-3,10-13, Matthew 18:12-14).