During a conversation, have you ever felt that the other person is not listening? This can be frustrating. But the Lord knows this pain. Today Isaiah explains that if the Israelites had listened to God, they would have had peace, and wellbeing. Unfortunately, their choice not to listen led to exile in Babylon.

Jesus compares the people of Israel to children playing: when things do not go as they expect, they get upset. John the Baptist calls people to conversion. Yet this austere message is not pleasing to their ears and so many ignore him. In contrast, Jesus comes, engaging with ordinary people in their daily lives, including eating with the poor and the outcast. Yet this kind of love does not conform to their expectations of the Messiah. So, they do not listen to Jesus, God’s message brings life but it is often ignored. “But wisdom is proved right by her deeds” (11:19). Ultimately, its truth will become evident.

Today we remember St Lucy, a young woman who chose to listen to Jesus instead of the world. Lucy offered her life to Jesus at an early age and so refused to marry. This angered a suitor and she was martyred for her faith in 304 A.D. Jesus came into our world and listened patiently to us in silence. Hence, we know that the last word is not from the world but God’s. And it is a consoling word.

Jesus, listening to You is challenging but it brings life. Help me to hear Your voice this Advent.