Prisoners Exercising
Vincent van Gogh, 1890
My dear friends,
The prophetic words of Isaiah 61 reach across centuries, calling us into a vision of liberation, healing, and justice. As we journey through Advent, these words remind us that the divine mission is not only to bring hope but to restore broken communities and reconcile humanity with God’s enduring covenant.
because the LORD has anointed me;...
- Isaiah 61:1a
This opening proclamation reminds us of the Bodhisattva's vow: to be empowered not for personal gain, but to act for the benefit of others. Just as Isaiah is anointed, we too are called to awaken the spirit of love and wisdom within ourselves, dedicating our lives to the service of all beings.
good news to the oppressed,
to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives
and release to the prisoners,...
- Isaiah 61:1b
The good news of liberation mirrors the teachings of ultimate freedom in the Bodhisattva path: freedom from suffering, ignorance, and attachment. Isaiah’s mission resonates with the deep compassion that seeks to heal and restore dignity to those who are trapped by life's challenges.
to comfort all who mourn, to provide for those who mourn in Zion,
to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit.
- Isaiah 61:2-3a
This transformation—from mourning to joy, from ashes to beauty—calls us to the practice of compassion in action. As followers of the Bodhisattva path, we are invited to exchange the suffering of others for the joy of healing and to become vessels of divine love that uplift and renew.
They shall build up the ancient ruins; they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.
- Isaiah 61:3b-4
The work of building and repairing reflects the Bodhisattva’s dedication to restoring harmony in the world. Whether it is rebuilding a shattered heart or a fractured community, these acts of renewal become sacred offerings, displaying the divine within each effort.
- Isaiah 61:8a
Justice is a cornerstone of divine work and the Bodhisattva path. This love for justice requires us to act with integrity, ensuring our efforts are rooted in fairness and compassion, echoing God's hatred for wrongdoing.
Their descendants shall be known among the nations and their offspring among the peoples;
all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people whom the LORD has blessed.
- Isaiah 61:8b-9
The everlasting covenant reflects the unbreakable bond between divine love and humanity. Through acts of kindness and justice, the Bodhisattva contributes to the flourishing of future generations, ensuring that they too may experience the blessings of peace and joy.
my whole being shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
- Isaiah 61:10
Rejoicing in God’s salvation reminds us of the joy found in practicing the virtues of the Bodhisattva path. This joy is not merely personal but radiates outward, inspiring others to join in the work of righteousness and love.
so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations.
- Isaiah 61:11
This vision of righteousness springing forth like a garden reminds us of the seeds we plant through our virtuous actions. As Bodhisattvas, we trust that these seeds will bear fruit, bringing peace and justice to all nations.
May these words inspire us to live as bearers of hope, proclaiming freedom, healing, and justice in our world, as we prepare for the coming of divine love into our midst.