Prophetically, Isaiah announced that the God of Israel is also the God for everyone: "For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples." (Is 56:8). This message did not "take" right away, and indeed, it was a big question and controversy in the early Church: Should Gentiles be admitted without circumcision?...etc...Even more recently, Pope Francis explained it again in THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL (237), and summed it up thusly: "The Gospel has an intrinsic principle of totality: it will always remain good news until it has been proclaimed to all people, until it has healed and strengthened every aspect of humanity, until it has brought all men and women together at table in God's kingdom. The whole is greater than the part."
This is the Christmas Message proclaimed by the heavenly host: "Glory to God in the highest heaven and peace to those on whom his favor rests". (Lk 2: 14). Who is to decide who these "favored" are? Understanding God's love for all his creatures, none can be excluded. It is for us, especially during Advent, to work our minds and hearts into a universality of welcome, letting go of our prejudices and narrowness. May God help us to receive ALL into our hearts as he receives ALL into his house of prayer.
Bro. Rene
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment