In the first thirty-nine chapters of his book, the prophet Isaiah constantly fusses with the people, seeking to get them to conversion, change, reform. In chapter 40 the message shifts: Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her service is at an end, her guilt is expiated. What happened in the meantime was the destruction of the temple, the razing of the city, the deportation into exile. Isaiah’s efforts to avoid this catastrophe had failed and the people were now suffering. So the message shifts to one of consolation in the midst of their difficulties. Included as a promise of restoration, that they would return home no matter the obstacle. In the desert prepare the way of the LORD! Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God! Our Advent reflection should contain both messages as well — a call to conversion requiring us to change and a message of comfort that no matter what God is with us.
