The passage from the Prophet Isaiah is that of God's people in exile in Babylon during the 6th century, B.C. That they are not in the best of times is deduced from thr words Isaiah the prophet used of them - “poor worm...puny mite”. However, God brings a message of consolation to them, assuring them that “I am holding you by the right hand, do not be afraid, I will help you.” Though seen to be puny weaklings, God will make them so mighty that they will become “a threshing-sled with double teeth” that crush their enemies into “chaff” and be blown away.

Through prophet Isaiah, God assures the weaklings in exile of a grand transformation into prosperity. Into their lives God promise miracles - the “barren heights, valleys, wilderness and dry ground will become rivers, fountains, lakes and water springs”. Then, there would be fruitfulness everywhere (“cedar trees, acaias, myrtles, olives, juniper, plane tree, cypress”)!

Jesus assured us that the least will be considered greater in heaven. The greatness of St John the Baptist is in preparing us to encounter the Lord. His words “let Him increase, while I decrease” is truly a continuation of the mission of Prophet Elijah to redirect our attention to God. Whenever we are deemed weaklings and the least, let us be reminded that the Lord will never abandon us to overcome the challenges we face. In due time, our fruitful and fulfilling lives will bear witness to the glory of God.

Lord, in our smallness, we bless Your name forever.