O Wisdom!

The O Antiphons are a series of 7 ancient Christian prayers traditionally sung or recited during Vespers (evening prayer) on the last seven nights of Advent.  Each of the antiphons, which are based on the words of the prophet Isaiah, begins with a title for Christ, revealing an aspect of his role in salvation history and expressing our great longing for the coming of the Messiah.  While you may never have heard of the O Antiphons before, you’re probably familiar with them, as they are the basis for the hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”  We’ll focus on that familiar form in our reflections this week.

We pray:
O Come, O Wisdom from on high, embracing all things far and nigh:
in strength and beauty come and stay; teach us your will and guide our way.

Tonight we reflect on Christ as the Wisdom of God’s great plan for salvation, a plan begun at the dawn of time, encompassing all of creation — Christ as the Word made Flesh; the Way, the Truth, and the Light.  Can you recall a time when you have needed Christ’s guidance in the past year?  A time when the world has seemed chaotic and purposeless, or when you were unable to find God in your life?  Maybe a friend has expressed feeling lost, or a co-worker has needed strength and support.  Have you wondered how your hands could work for God’s will, and how your feet could follow God’s way?

Hear this good news:
Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel!

Amen