Isaiah’s prophecy brings hope and renewal: “A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse.” From what seems lifeless, God brings forth new life: the Messiah, filled with the spirit of wisdom, and understanding. God’s plans often emerge from unlikely places and his Spirit brings harmony, justice, and peace to a broken world. Under the reign of this righteous King, even natural enemies: wolf and lamb; will dwell together in peace, symbolizing the reconciliation that Christ accomplishes in our hearts. In the Gospel reading, Jesus rejoices in the Holy Spirit, praising the Father for revealing divine truths not to the wise and learned, but to the humble and childlike. True wisdom, then, is found in openness of heart. Jesus reminds his disciples of the privilege they have: to see and hear what many prophets longed for. God continues to work in quiet and unexpected ways, bringing forth life where there seems to be none and revealing himself to those who trust like children.

PRAYER: Abba Father, grant me childlike faith and hope in your promises. Amen.