Daily Catholic Lectio
Wednesday, 6 December 2023
Wednesday of the First Week of Advent
Isaiah 25:6-10. Matthew 15:29-37
You prepare a banquet!
The word-picture that is found in today’s readings and the responsorial psalm is ‘banquet.’
Prophet Isaiah prophesies about the banquet that the Lord of hosts will ‘host’ on Mount Zion. The prophet puts forward two characteristic features of this banquet: one, God himself prepares and hosts the banquet; and two, this banquet is the feast of joy. The Lord will remove the veil of sadness that covers the people of Israel. Covering the face signifies death. God removes death totally.
In the gospel reading Jesus heals many people who were afflicted with different diseases and infirmities. Further, having been moved by compassion Jesus feeds hungry crowd. The disciples gathered seven basketful loaves of bread.
Isaiah prophecies that one of the signs of the advent of the Messiah is that he would throw a banquet for the people. Jesus fulfils the prophecy, as he gives a feast to the hungry multitude.
In the responsorial psalm (Ps 23) David sings, ‘You prepare a table for me … my cup overflows.’
What are the takeaways from today’s readings?
(a) Hunger is a basic human instinct. This is common to all humans and to all living beings. Hunger is a recurring feeling. Hunger is the symbol of our weakness. By satisfying our hunger God adds strength to us.
(b) Hunger when satisfied turns out to be joy or contentment. This joy makes us do other things.
(c) Compassion alone can satisfy hunger. Jesus’ act of compassion satisfies the hunger of many. We too are called to be compassionate to each other.
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The Catechism of the Catholic Church, reflecting on the prayer ‘Our Father,’ invites us to satisfy the hungry stomachs and the hunger for the word of God (cf. n. 2835).
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Today, as I cross the 42nd milestone of my life, I thank God for the gift of life. I solicit your prayers for me and blessings upon me. In the genealogy of Jesus according to Matthew, we have number 42 mentioned as fullness of fullness, three times fourteen. May our God of fullness continue to fill our cups and make them overflow with his grace. Now and ever.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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