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Isaiah 35: 4-7 Psalm 145:7-10 James 2:1-5 Mark 7:31-37
What are the signs of the in breaking of the kingdom of God? In the 8th century BCE, the prophet Isaiah painted a picture of restored sight and hearing, new strength in lame limbs and speech returned to the dumb. These physical signs and the flowering of the desert were for the prophet, symbols of salvation, signs of a glorious future for Israel.
IWhen Jesus, 800 years later, restored speech and hearing to a man who was brought to him, the evangelist, steeped in Jewish tradition, was reminded of Isaiah's prophecy. He recognised that, through Jesus, the kingdom of God had become a reality and Israel's glorious future had begun in a new way.
In the kingdom of God the world is turned up-side down. St James tells us that God chooses those who are poor to be rich in faith and heirs to the kingdom. Norms that we take for granted do not apply in the kingdom. You are invited to spend some time today reflecting on the nature of the kingdom. Does your life chime with this teaching? How is your life challenged by it?
Read the words of Isaiah and let them fill you with hope for the coming of the kingdom.