The opening text will come from a book by Abraham Joshua Heschel (God in Search of Man - A Philosophy of Judaism). As you are able to see by the title, the language may be a bit dated and therefore, I will, when able, make the language inclusive.
It is through the prophets that we may be able to encounter (God) as a Being who is beyond the mystery. In the prophets the ineffable became a voice, disclosing that God is not a being that is apart and away from ourselves, as ancient (humanity) believed, that (God) is not an enigma, but justice, mercy; not only a power to which we are accountable, but also a pattern for our lives. (God) is not the Unknown; (God) is the Father, the God of Abraham; out of the endless ages come compassion and guidance. Even the individual who feels forsaken remembers (God) as the God of (his/her) fathers.
God is forever connected to us and the connection is concrete and as real as the way in which we live this day. Maybe that is why the early church in the book of Acts was simply called the Way. God in the flesh in community - is God available and vulnerable. The prophets job becomes one in which the people are continuously reminded of the God who is present and calling forth a life that unfolds within the patterns of ordinary days. The justice and peace and mercy of our lives are that of the God who calls forth such qualities in life. There is no separation…there is only continuation and the prophets keep calling us into that eternal line of life even when the rest of the world seems to want to push what is called the Reign of God into a distant time and place.
Connection: The point here may simply be the constant call to see and hear and put to life the Reign of God without hesitation or excuse. And what would that begin to look like?
O God, you are always close to us and bidding us to follow along your ways. Continue to remind us of the purpose and intention you bring to each day. Continue to touch us with the words of your prophets who help us to focus and see your blessed Reign even when the world appears to have no room for your glory and wonder. Amen.
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