The Road to Mount Zion: Walking Toward God’s Peace

The Road to Mount Zion: Walking Toward God’s Peace The Gospel recounts Jesus’ warning that the coming of the Son of Man will be sudden, . . . . . . just as the flood came unexpectedly in the days of Noah. Therefore, believers must remain spiritually awake and prepared at all times. The Homily connects this vigilance to the Advent call for peace and reconciliation. Reflecting on the United Nations monument inspired by Isaiah’s prophecy . . . “They shall beat their swords into plowshares” . . . the Homily notes that true peace does not come from political power or military strength but from turning toward God, the God of Jacob. Despite global efforts, . . . . . . wars persist, reminding us that peace must begin within each person. During Advent, Christians are invited to “beat their swords into plowshares” by reconciling with those who have hurt them. The greatness of a Christian lies in seeking peace, healing relationships, and living each day as though the Lord is coming in every moment. Paul’s call to “wake from sleep” emphasizes living daily life in holiness, attentiveness, and readiness. Advent begins not with the beginning of time but with the end in view . . . the ultimate fulfillment when God will be all in all and peace will reign. The Church becomes the place where this peace begins as believers set aside hostility and walk together toward God. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: The Road to Mount Zion: Walking Toward God’s Peace ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Journey of the Magi: French Painter: James Tissot: 1894 Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum. Why was this panting selected for this post: A visual metaphor for pilgrimage toward God, paralleling Isaiah’s call to “go up to the mountain of the Lord.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew 24: 37-44 First Reading: Isaiah 2: 1-5 Second Reading: Romans 13: 11-14