20 December 2005

Today we will blend Walter Brueggemann's metaphors of "exile" and "homecoming."

The use of these two metaphors, exile and homecoming, is an act of remarkable evangelical imagination. The homecoming metaphor makes sense only where the metaphor of exile has been accepted as true. Second Isaiah's poetry of homecoming id precisely imaginative poetry which liberates. It is not based in political analysis, though the poet obviously knew what was going on in his world. It is an imaginative act of speech that intends to evoke reality and lead this community out beyond their present situation. The poetry is grounded in a theological conviction of God's sovereignty (40:9-11; 52:7). It is also informed by political analysis (45:1-6).

So the poet sees the world through at least two lenses - theological and political. There would be, I would think, a bit of flexibility to say what needed to be said to bring attention to both the day at hand and the possibility of what was not yet the case. I find this description of the poet to be quite like that of the song writer. Both are poets and both keep their eyes and ears fixed on what is and what is not yet. In that way, songs and poems can serve to lift up the audience to see and hear what is so regular in a very new way. Painting possibilities within a situation that is limited and confined is the beginning of liberation...for the heart begins to live in what is not and therefore, what is - oppression, exile, discrimination - slowly loses its power to control life. The "imaginative act of speech" that was the voice of Isaiah is a voice that is not only heard in the day in which it is spoken. It carries a vision that can and will serve to awaken those who live in exile in any place and time.

Connection: Before the season of Advent is gone, listen to some of the hymns of this season. They carry a note of resistance and also a call to new vision. We can all use a bit of that tune.

Stir up our hearts, O God, so that we will be able to hear your voice calling us to come and share in your life no matter what may be the shape of the life we now hold. Grant us courage and grant us wisdom to be lifted up to view your gracious Reign. Amen.