Honoring the Prophets Among Us

December reflections on scripture from the Revised Common Lectionary, Cycle A.

Illustration by Jocelyn O’Leary

IN ADVENT, I remember and am grateful for all the prophets who show us the way of the divine. They invite us to remember and live out God’s command to love each other as much as we love God. I call to mind biblical scholar Walter Brueggemann, who passed away this year. He was a mentor, teacher, and colleague to many, including me. He taught us to prophetically reimagine a world where we challenge dominant and oppressive ideologies while compassionately re-envisioning a more just world. His magnanimous presence and prophetic words will be missed.

I also remember the young—led by Mary, the mother of Jesus—who invite us to be prophetic during adversity. With the guidance of Osvaldo D. Vena, we are invited to dream dreams in the joyous playground of God. Grounded in the abundance of God in our lives, I celebrate with Son Kyung Min’s praise song “Grace,” which I highly recommend for personal devotion and corporate worship services. The music grounds me in my faith and prompts me to remember how surrounded I am by God’s love.

As we approach the season of Christmas, let us pay close attention to the needs of our neighbors, especially our international students and immigrant neighbors. Every moment provides an opportunity for us to share the gift of the redemptive love of God.

Read the Full Article

To continue reading this article — and get full access to all our magazine content — subscribe now for as little as $4.95. Your subscription helps sustain our nonprofit journalism and allows us to pay authors for their terrific work! Thank you for your support.
Subscribe Now!