The readings for this Sunday are Isaiah 11:1-10 and Matthew 3:1-12.  

The theme for the second Sunday of Advent is 'The Prophets', and it's a time when we remember the men and women of faith who, through the centuries, have spoken out the word of God, and his intentions for the world, to the those around them.  

Whilst that might sound like a brilliant thing to be called to do (who doesn't want to be granted the sort of vision of Isaiah gets here, and to be able to use it to spread hope, joy, and wonder?), the reading from Matthew's gospel reminds us it can also be an incredibly weighty responsibility.  In that reading John the baptist is called into conflict with those in authority - reminding them that the way they are conducting themselves is not inline with God's intentions for the world, and can only lead to negative consequences for them and those around them.  It's not a one-off in John's life, and it doesn't help him that he's right... he ends up with his head cut off for calling out the King and Queen for their adulterous relationship...

And his story isn't unique - as we remember the prophets, we don't just remember those who gave joy, courage, and wonder to those around them; we remember those who spoke out against the rich and the powerful in support of the poor and the weak; we remember those who wouldn't (couldn't?) stay silent in the face of social injustice, and oppression; those who, in many instances, gave their lives because they believed so passionately in the vision they held of justice, peace, and love for all.  Calling for change is never easy, and "I have a dream..." is a dangerous message if your dream doesn't fit with the agenda of those in power.

But when we remember their courage in speaking out, we have to remember the foundation for it.  It came from knowing that power on earth is only ever an act, the only one really in power is the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; the God who calls the universe into being in every moment, who's vision of perfect restoration no human being can stop, and who would hold them secure through whatever came their way - into eternity if necessary.

That's why Isaiah sounds so certain; that's why John was brave.

But where does that leave us?  Can we share the confidence, the bravery, of the prophets?  Can we become the voices that speak out in our day against injustice, and oppression?  Can we be the ones who share the beauty of God's intention for us all, and encourage others to discover it for themselves?

Pause for prayer:  We can't all care about everything; but we can all care about something.  Take a moment to sit and be, and think through what you've heard and seen recently... as you walk through town, at work, at play, or in the news.  Ask God to show you where your heart beats with his - and notice any situation, people, place, or story that catch your attention, that elicit your emotions, that evoke any sort of passion (it's not going to be all of them, that's fine!).  Pause to pray for that only, whatever it might be - for God's presence, for God's mercy, for whatever is needed.  Now, when you are done, if you're feeling brave, ask yourself if there is any prophetic action that you need to take - is there something you can do to help directly, or indirectly?  And if you're feeling really brave answer honestly!