“Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them.” – Isaiah 11:6
Isaiah paints a picture that is almost too good to be true: wolves and lambs, predators and prey, living side by side in harmony. However, this is the promise of Advent, that the Messiah will bring a peace so true that even the fiercest of enemies will be brought together.
As we enter this season of waiting, it’s easy to feel that Isaiah’s vision is an impossible one. Our world is filled with conflict, division, and fear. Even in our personal lives, we may experience challenging relationships and conflicts. Wolves and lambs do not naturally live in peace among one another; however, Advent calls us to believe that God is at work making what seems impossible, possible.
Advent invites us to soften our hearts, to begin by making peace in our homes, our classrooms, and our communities. When the wolf and the lamb come together, it is a sign that God is at work. This Advent, may we prepare not only for the birth of Christ, but that his peace be born again in us, so that the world might begin to look a little more like Isaiah’s vision.
Lord, teach us to welcome one another as wolves and lambs at the same table so that Your kingdom of harmony may take root in our hearts this Advent. Amen.
Lauren Hill
Thank you Lauren!