Thaumaturge and praise (Advent A3)

Jesus comes in power, the thaumaturge.

All creation responds. Streams break forth in the desert. Glory and beauty return to desolate places as they blossom in praise and rejoicing.

Eyes will open, the deaf shall hear, lame will leap and the mute will begin to sing all because the kingdom has come near. Praise is demanded!

How can we stand weak and weary in face of such power? Strengthen weak hands and feeble knees. We do not fear for our God has come near.

Isaiah's themes are carried on through the rest of this week's texts. Images of nature rejoicing, miracles and displays of power and a call to the people of God to strength and praise are everywhere.

In the Gospel, John, imprisoned and isolated, sends to know if what he prophesied is true. Is it because he was confused, that Jesus didn't act like he thought? Maybe, or perhaps in his isolation he was just hungry for news. I love the imagery in the old movie, "Salome" when John receives word of the power of the Christ bringing sight and hearing and hope, he leans against his cell wall with a look of pure worship on his face.

And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me. The word of the work of the kingdom of heaven near strengthened John. It should strengthen us, it should demand from us praise, miracles and works of the Spirit should follow as an expression of intense praise.