The beautiful vision of Isaiah makes every heart swell with emotion and joy. It speaks of what we all yearn for - the earth ruled with justice and compassion, and an end to war and violence. In the vision, natural enemies such as lions and lambs, leopards and goats, and cows and bears live together peacefully and without fear. Nations do not practise war anymore, and nothing harms anyone or anything on God's holy mountain. It is indeed beautiful, but it has not happened. When will it occur? Isaiah tells us that it will be brought about through a descendant of Jesse - in other words, the Messiah. The vision was given to inspire us, and it expresses God's will and dream for us. We should allow our lives to be guided by this hope and dream and do all within our power to make it a reality.

Jesus rejoiced over the huge changes taking place before his eyes, especially since it had nothing to do with human cleverness. Human arrogance and selfishness did not play a part; it was all God's doing. All had been revealed to the simple and lowly - those humble souls who were open to the spirit. Since Jesus had received everything from the Father, he also rejoiced that he could share all that he had with whomever he pleased. Jesus offers to share so much with us - do we accept the invitation?