A light in the midst of darkness

Whenever I read the prophets from this time of year, I am acutely aware that these holy men are writing to a people coming back from exile.  One of my first thoughts is that the people in the pew cannot comprehend 'exile.'  But considering the school shooting on Friday, we do hurt together these last few days.  We feel empty and pained as we grieve with the families hundreds of miles away.  The horror of the death of twenty some children hurts to the core of our being.

The example of John the Baptist, who preaches about light in the midst of darkness, is most appropriate for this weekend.  People who are searching for meaning, purpose, and conversion, ask John, "What should we do?"  John's answers are very common sense; but we do not always align ourselves with sensibility.  We are to treat each other with respect, reverence the dignity of each other, do not be greedy, and seek that which is true and right.

The role of the prophet is to point out the Sin and sinfulness of a people.  The prophets call evil by its true name, and do not try to sugar-coat the life within he covenant.  The prophets will tell us that we are responsible for our faith and for each other.  We stand up against evil, and seek healing and reconciliation for the broken and lost.  Prophets are not always well loved, but are a valuable part of our culture and Church.

Sadly we begin to think that violence is inevitable and a normal part of the human condition.  So we become numb to the hurt and pain  that we observe on a daily basis.  But what if we began looking for ways to reconcile, pointing out those who are in need of healing or comfort, looking after the lonely and anxious, and offering a blessing rather than a curse.  Think about the vile and vicious political ads this past elect season.  The politicians owe each of us a quarter and need to say three good things about their opponents. 

But somewhere we need to, like John the Baptist, own that role of 'prophet' in our own time and in our own place.  In the midst of the darkness that is around us, we proclaim holiness and peace in our words and deeds.  Just as John points to the Saviour of the world, we have to recognize the human dignity that is ours as children of the light.  Today we call people to joy because we are not afraid of the darkness.