The first reading from the Book of Isaiah is a messianic prophecy that contains two parts. In the first part (verses 2-5), we find the depiction of an ideal king who is to come in the distant future. The spirit of the Lord would be upon him and he will do all that a righteous king should do.

The second part of the prophecy (verses 6-10) depicts the ideal world which will come about during the reign of the ideal king. In this world, creation will be transformed and there will be perfect peace. It is a world in which the "little ones" who will take the lead in contrast to the rich and powerful leaders of the present world.

The prophecy of the ideal king was fulfilled in Jesus, who was gifted with the spirit of wisdom and insight, counsel and power and knowledge and the fear of the Lord. In the Gospel today, he praises the Father for letting the "little ones" understand him and his mission. This understanding cannot be bought nor can it be deduced by human intelligence but is given only to those who are his true disciples who recognise Jesus for who he is.

As we journey into another Season of Advent, we are provided with another opportunity by God to recognise him who has come among us as the ideal king to bring perfect peace in our lives and in the world. Whether we make use of this opportunity or not, is up to us.