Wednesday of the First Week of Advent
(Isaiah 25:6-10a; Matthew 15:29-37)
People speak of “death with dignity.” But death always compromises human
dignity. It refuses to recognize the
person’s desire not only to live but to thrive.
Of course, what people mean by the term is something less than full
dignity. They mean a death without the
depersonalization of medical technology.
Likewise, they have in mind a death without intense, long-term suffering. They also want to see the person controlling
some of the circumstances about her demise.
Full dignity, however, goes beyond these considerations. It is a quality of soul engendered by virtuous
living. In death dignity is reflected
especially in courage that expresses gratitude for life. Dignity also pursues reconciliation with God
and with others to leave the world a more peaceful place.
In the first reading the prophet Isaiah
promises a heavenly banquet for those who die with full dignity. On that occasion the tears that they may have
shed bearing pain or seeking peace will be graciously wiped away. Also, the God to whom they entrusted
themselves will come as their savior.
The gospel passage foreshadows that banquet. Showing himself the fulfillment
of the deepest human desires, Jesus provides the repast.
During Advent we look for Jesus to come and
console us in our efforts to live virtuously.
We yearn for him to escort us to the table of plenty which our Eucharist
foreshadows. Finally, we hear him tell us
the best way to prepare for his arrival is the same virtuous lifestyle.
