by Fr. Gregory-David Jones, O.S.B.

      The prophecy about the Messiah is about bringing a new reality or vision to a people who “sit in darkness” and are “overshadowed by death”.  Jesus fulfilled this oracle even as it relates to geographical placement.  Our Lord was the great light that was shared with the Gentiles.  He brought the light of truth in revealing God as the merciful Father who desires all people to be saved and welcomed into the everlasting Kingdom. 

   Yes, Jesus fulfilled the prophecy!  Yet it is incomplete today.  There are still people who “sit in darkness”.  They are not only isolated people in remote parts of the world, but they are for the most part, people who live among us.  We all have the duty entrusted to us through our baptism and confirmation to carry the light of Christ to enlighten the eyes of the hearts of those who are overcome by the seductive and destructive force of sin.  May the Holy Spirit guide us in living the message of repentance, so that we can proclaim it more boldly that the hearts of those who live in the valley of darkness and the shadow of death may hear it and come to Jesus who is the ultimate source of light and life.

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