A prophet has a special role in Salvation History. His main role is to be a mouthpiece for God. In order to be effective, he must enter into the grittiness of everyday life with God’s people to wake them up and call them back. The word Advent means “coming” so it is a fitting word to relate to the prophetic mission; thus the prophet’s role is always to help God’s children prepare for His coming.
To better understand how to prepare, we can look to the first reading and the Gospel. Both turn our attention to the prophet Elijah and his role in Salvation History. Elijah was a prophet during turbulent times. God sent him to deliver a strong message – to call back the hearts of the people who had turned to the worship of false gods. He was a bold prophet who was not afraid to confront King Ahab and Queen Jezebel as well as a humble prophet who saw the needs of the poor widow of Sidon. The Gospel points out that John the Baptist had a similar mission. As the voice crying out in the desert, he called the people to repent.
By virtue of our baptism, we too have been called to imitate Christ as priest, prophet, and king. Today, with Elijah and John the Baptist as our guides, let us ponder more deeply the role of a prophet, especially during this season of Advent.
Radical Prophets
Even a quick read of scripture stories about prophets will tell us a sobering truth – this role is not for the faint of heart. A prophet must avail Himself always and fully to God. A prophet must often speak hard truths in the face of opposition. A prophet must go into all corners of society to reach many souls. In a sense, a prophet must be radical.
The word radical is from the Latin “radix” meaning root. To be radical means to go back to the origin, the purity and strength from which all growth springs. Often, simply speaking the truth and bringing light to dark places can make the prophet look “crazy.”
So how are we called to be radical prophets this Advent? The opportunities are limitless.
Consider ways in which you can be a radical prophet this Advent:
● Reach out to a loved one who has been estranged from the family.
● Proclaim a “Merry Christmas” in the face of secularized season greetings.
● Spend time with a suffering soul.
● Place your phone/computer in another room and be fully present to the moment.
● Guard your time of prayer fiercely. Do not let anything steal your time with Jesus.
● Increase time for prayer, especially in the silence and awe of Eucharistic Adoration.
● Go to Confession and invite someone to come with you.
● Even in the face of numerous preparations, keep a steady, focused, pondering heart like Mary.
● Do something beautiful, bold, and extravagant for Christ – whether it be an offering of your time, talent, or treasure. He deserves it. He is the King of Kings!
We, too, can be forerunners for Christ! This Advent, let us be people of light who shine in the darkness, boldly calling all souls to the heart of Christ, where true joy awaits.
