Today's 'O Antiphon' takes as its guiding image Isaiah's prophecy of the "branch of the root of Jesse (see Isa 11). The prayer reads: O Root of Jesse, standing as a sign among the peoples; before you kings will shut their mouths, to you the nations will make their prayer: Come and deliver us, and … Continue reading O Radix Iesse: Never Too Late
In this last week of Advent, I'm writing short daily reflections on the 'O Antiphons', which mark the Western liturgical tradition's countdown to Christmas. Today's reads: O Adonai and Leader of the House of Israel, who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush and gave him the law on Sinai: Come and … Continue reading O Adonai: With Outstretched Arm
As I'm writing this, there is a skiff of snow on the ground, my Christmas tree is lit behind me, and my presents are on their way to far-away family. There's no doubt that Christmas is just around the corner. But it's not here yet. This means that we're in the final days of preparation. … Continue reading O Sapientia: Stop, Look, and Listen
'Home is where the heart is.' It's as true a cliché as any. One of the consequences of having a rather itinerant childhood is that for me the idea of 'home' is not connected to a place. I never know what to say when asked about my 'hometown', and I never talk about visiting family … Continue reading The Way Home (An Advent reflection on Isaiah 40.1-10)
I’ve been thinking and writing a lot lately about how most contemporary conceptions about God are too small. The readings this week, as we settle into the hope and expectation of Advent, remind me that the same can be said for common ideas about salvation. For there is nothing that cannot be redeemed. There is … Continue reading The Big, Beautiful, All-Encompassing Salvation of our God (An Advent Reflection on Isaiah 29.17-24)
