Lent 2023; Third Sunday of Lent
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Vindication is mine says the Lord; A Glorious Crown in the Hand of the Lord!
Through the days of Hope during the season of Advent we are shown the future of our closest Ally; Israel and its inhabitants constantly under siege by the enemies of God.
Tonight we live in the glory of Christ who has come to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah. “For Zion’s sake I will not be silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet, until her vindication shines forth like the dawn and her victory like a burning torch.” (Is 62: 1).
Without a moment's rest the prophecy from Isaiah holds true for today as well as centuries ago when the very essence of God’s plan to redeem Israel has become the very reason that Christ Incarnated himself to suffer in our place. The birth of Jesus, his Presentation in the temple, the accusations of Blasphemy, the Crucifixion and Resurrection from the tomb all fit the scenario of God’s plan to bring each one of us into his eternal kingdom without ever raising a finger to reach that. We know that this opportunity comes at no cost to us; just the belief that Christ taught us through faith and humility.
We will visit the crib and find tears of hope all wrapped up in the recent weeks where each one found a longing to find his grace was always there. He is waiting for our willingness to become humble enough to admit to this one-time exposure of whom we are worshiping and understand the very release of the fears that without his earthly beginning our salvation would be non-existing.
The days ahead, especially with the Presentation in the Temple (Lk 2: 22 - 38). A word of warning to his Mother, Mary, “and you yourself a sword will pierce so the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Lk 2: 35). Signs of the rejection of her son; the Son of God.
“Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again: rejoice! THen the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4: 4, 7).
Ralph B. Hathaway
I am an ordained deacon with the Diocese of Pittsburgh, since June 8, 1974. My current ministry is concentrated on writing spiritual reflections and poetry. I am married, with one grown daughter, and 4 grandchildren. I retired from the electrical industry after 58 years as an electrician, contractor, teacher in trade schools, and electrical inspector with a PA State license
