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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Isaiah 35: 1-6,10
Psalm 145
James 5:7-10
Matthew 11:2-11
On this Sunday the Church invites us to rejoice because the Lord is near. The reading from the prophet Isaiah describes what it will be like when the Lord comes - a transformation of the earth, complete freedom from physical disabilities and captivity, and an end to sorrow and weeping. The people of Israel saw signs of the fulfilment of this prophecy when they returned to their own land from their captivity in Babylon.
Just as the prophets had to exercise patience before their prophecies were fulfilled so James encourages his readers not to lose heart. The Lord's coming will be soon, he says.
The gospel reading echoes the signs of the coming of the Lord. When John's disciples ask Jesus if he is the one who is to come he tells them that the reign of God is here - the blind see, the deaf hear and the dead are raised to life.
When you reflect on these readings, ask yourself if there are any signs of transformation or of freedom in your life, even in a small way?
Spend some time rejoicing in these signs. They will bring a sure hope in these uncertain times. You might like to use the psalm as a prayer.