An atmosphere of expectancy, as described in the gospel for last Sunday (Luke 3:10-18), is often found among those who urgently seek change, particularly those who have suffered under brutal rule and unjust laws.
During the time of Jesus, the people in ancient Palestine experienced the hardships of Roman occupation. For them, John the Baptist appeared to be a prophet who demanded that people treat one another with honesty and respect and assured them that one is coming who is more powerful than he, one who would baptise them “with the Holy Spirit and fire”.
In his letter to the Philippians 4:4-7, Paul calls upon people to be happy and tolerant towards one another because “the Lord is very near”. Again, there is this air of expectation and also a call for people to be understanding and respectful in their relationships with one another. So, this atmosphere of expectancy should encourage people to live out their vision for the future in the way they live in the present.
The Eucharist represents a profound connection to our hope of participating in the messianic banquet at the end of time, continually realised through the breaking of bread and the remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. However, it also challenges us to transform our world and present-day societies into places where kindness flourishes, happiness is attainable, honesty prevails in our interactions, and peace and harmony are the norms among people.
In many parts of our world, we are failing to meet this challenge. Let us pray for those who endure brutal rule, unjust laws, and unrelenting war. Let us pray that we can provide shelter and support for those seeking refuge and witness what is possible in our world by upholding values based on honesty, respect, tolerance, understanding, and love.
Columban Fr Tom Rouse lives and works in Lower Hutt - Aotearoa/New Zealand.
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