- week
1: Notice how much natural imagery is used both by Jesus and Isaiah
(sun, moon, stars, dawn and night, unfurling leaves, mountains, brush
burning). These aren't only terrifying apocalyptic images, but signs for
us. "From the fig tree, learn its lesson!"
- week
2: Isaiah and Mark both dwell in the wilderness. The mountains and
deserts and fading grasses again teach us to expect God. The waters of
John the Baptist refresh life. Even the locusts and wild honey remind
us of the sustenance--the wilderness may get us away from hectic
society, but God is ever-present in blessing! Psalm 85 is its own
treasure trove; for inspiration, enjoy John August Swason's visual representation.
- week
3: Isaiah 61 not only echoes a prayer of blessing that many use in
baptisms or confirmations, but also connects easily to the greenery of
seasonal decor -- garlands as celebrative decoration are mentioned
twice.
- week
4: Remember pregnancy and birth as God's creation in us and with us.
God invites us to be "creative co-creators." Immanuel, "God with us,"
is a presence in the midst of our human community and also the whole of
our world.
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