Friday 10 December 2021
But who can endure the days of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap. (v. 2)
Background
The final two readings for this week come from the last book of what Christians call the Old Testament. It dates from sometime in the first half of the 5th century BC. This was just prior to Ezra reforming the Temple and its worship; and Nehemiah rebuilding the city walls. The name Malachi means ‘My messenger’, and so might be referring to 3:1, rather than being the name of the person who wrote the book.
Much of Malachi is like a court scene with questions and answers being given. It is mostly God who is speaking. God sets up questions either that have been levelled against God, or from what God has witnessed. These include whether God has loved the people (1:2) and whether God has been shown the respect due to a father (1:6).
Throughout the first two chapters of the book it seems the people of God were not being faithful. The priests and leaders were allowing blemished animals to be used for sacrifices instead of perfect ones; and they watered down expectations for moral living. In effect they were living as though God didn’t care how they lived, or wasn’t there at all.
Today’s passage shifts to look ahead to the day when God would actually come amongst them. Given their lax moral and religious practices, there is maybe a note of irony when speaking of "the Lord whom you seek", and "the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight". The coming of the Lord will bring judgement and justice. Even in the midst of that, though, is the hope that the result will be a people committed once more to following the ways of God.
In Advent we look for the coming of Christ, not just as an historical event from the past, but as a future reality. This can remind us that, though it is a day we should anticipate, it is not a day to be taken too lightly.
To Ponder:
- Is the return of Christ something we should still anticipate? If so, how do we prepare for it?
- How can we speak of God’s judgement, while still proclaiming God’s love?
Prayer
Eternal God, we thank you that all time is infused with your presence. Help us to live lives worthy of your calling, to your praise and glory. Amen.