Today’s first reading is one of my favorite chapters of the Old Testament: Isaiah 55. Starting in Isaiah 40, the prophet begins to describe the end of the Exile period and the triumphant return of the People of God to Jerusalem. Isaiah 55 provides a fitting conclusion by affirming the effectiveness of the prophetic word. It is the crowning validation of the reliability of prophecy and the power of the God of Israel. The 13 verses of this chapter offer some of the most recognizable passages showing up in the New Testament, liturgy and prayer of the Church. Rather than provide a commentary, let me leave you with the Word of God that you might ponder a part of the verses here on this first Tuesday of the Season of Lent. Continue reading →