1st Week of Advent, Saturday – 9th December 2023 – Isaiah 30,19-21.23-26; Mt 9,35-10,1.5-8
Promised Time of Restoration
The first reading from Isaiah consists of words of consolation for the people of Zion, who are God’s people. They shall weep no more because the Lord will respond to their cries for help. God’s grace is in favour of those who do not deserve it. Isaiah encourages the weary believers with the promise, a future day, when God will establish his divine rule and proclaim a time when there will be joy (v.20), truth (v.21), abundant feasting (v.23), refreshment (v.25) and light (v.26). This is the time when God will restore to Israel her land to enjoy the blessings of the kingdom. The land would be restored and become prosperous again, and God would bind up the bruises and heal the wounds of his people. For God is a God of compassion and love for those who call on him.
