ISAIAH 35:1-10; PSALM 85; LUKE 5:17-26
Isaiah tells us that the Lord will come and save his people. He says that the lame shall walk, the blind shall see, the deaf shall hear, the barren lands shall become prosperous and dry lands shall be watered. Jesus demonstrated this mission in the cure of the lame man. Jesus equally forgave the man his sins. Matt.1:21 says tells us that he is called Jesus because he will save his people from their sins. The Pharisees regarded as brood of vipers tried to oppose this authority the same way some believers try to oppose the authority of the priest to absolve sins. Beloved, in humility let us accept Jesus and be saved. Let us go to him for the forgiveness of sins during this period of advent. St. Ambrose whose memorial we celebrate today tells us that repentance must not be delayed. He added that in the Church there are two conversions “there are water and tears: the water of Baptism and the tears of repentance.” Beloved, sin is worse than sickness. Therefore, let us go to Jesus for forgiveness and healing. St. Ambrose, pray for us.
Let us pray
O Lord, Jesus Christ, Redeemer and Saviour, forgive our sins, just as you forgave Peter’s denial and those who crucified you. Count not our transgressions, but, rather, our tears of repentance. Remember not our iniquities, but, more especially, our sorrow for the offenses we have committed against you. We long to be true to you. We promise to give you praise and glory in love and in service all the days of our lives. Amen.
