Student Daily Reflection

Peace, serenity, companionship, and justice are what we find when we put our faith in the Lord. Isaiah, in today’s first reading, paints an optimistic and rejuvenating picture of what the world is like with the Lord present. These topics are very fitting of this week as we celebrate the new liturgical year and prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ.

Isaiah says that the Lord consoles with wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, and fear. It is only through Jesus that we come to rest in and be comforted in these divine gifts. We, as followers of Jesus will have wisdom, but know its limitations; be compassionate but strong; and be knowledgeable but as to not commit hubris.

However, with these great gifts come responsibilities – not only to the Lord but also to other humans. We are not to judge others by appearance, rumors, or other falsified information. Rather, we are to allow God to judge; for we are not capable of such a tremendous act. It is our duty, as we have been given the gifts of wisdom, counsel, and knowledge to “judge with justice.” This does not mean to make assessments of who is poor in spirit or rich in possessions but rather to treat everyone with a spirit of justice, appreciation of God’s creation, and sacredness of the person. These do not involve judgments – only compassion, integrity, and care.

This idea is so optimistic it may appear to be idealistic. It is like a new year’s resolution that seems like a great idea on New Years Eve but then by the second week of January when the spirit of the resolution dies out, the task becomes difficult. However, this is our call and our challenge. As immoral, cruel, and individualistic as the world may be, we are called to respond with justice. It is only when we “judge with justice” that “the wolf shall be the guest of the lamb,” the excluded welcomed with praise, the different accepted with open arms, the weak admired for their strength, and the ignorant educated.

These are not ideals; they are expectations – expectations of the faithful who are called to be a “signal for the nations,” examples for all, and leaders in the achievement of justice.