"The first reading at [1 recent] Tuesday's daily Mass presents a complex picture, but its fundamental message is clear. Isaiah announces that there will be a period of political stability among the nations and enemies surrounding Israel. It is a time of favor during which Israel can repent of its injustice and infidelity. If they do not, however, Israel will be destroyed within sixty-five years. . . .
"Isaiah is warning Ahaz not to seek protection in foreign alliances and entanglements. He is not to follow the example of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which has done this and already lost the faith to a large degree. Ahaz and Judah are summoned to firm faith in God; this is what will make them strong.
"Note the final warning: Unless your faith is not strong you shall not be strong!
While this is surely true for an individual, the context here is a
nation. If the nation's faith is not strong it will grow weak and fall
to pieces."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish,
Washington, DC) reflected on the decrease in faith in the United States and some of the resulting consequences.
To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:
Community in Mission: Unless Your Faith Is Strong You Shall Not Be Strong (14 JUL 20)
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