Posted by Chuck Scherl
In today’s (12/15/2024) reading from the Office of Readings, we hear Isaiah 45:1-13, which begins: “Thus says the Lord to his anointed, Cyrus, whose right hand I have grasped, to subdue nations before him and strip kings of their robes, to open doors before him—and the gates shall not be closed.” This is a remarkable passage because it calls Cyrus, a Persian king and not an Israelite, God’s “anointed.” Through Cyrus, God freed His people from exile in Babylon. This shows how God works in surprising ways, using people and events we might not expect to bring about His plans.
Cyrus’s story is both fascinating and dramatic. He was the son of the king of Persia, but his early life was threatened by his grandfather, a Median king who feared a prophecy that Cyrus would overthrow him. To prevent this, the grandfather ordered Cyrus to be killed as a baby. However, Cyrus survived, raised by shepherds, and eventually led a rebellion that overthrew his grandfather. He built what was then the largest empire the world had known. One of his most significant achievements was conquering Babylon, which allowed the Jewish people to return to Judah and rebuild their Temple. Unlike many conquerors, Cyrus followed a policy of tolerance, allowing people to keep their religions and cultures. This brought peace and stability to his empire.
The example of Cyrus teaches us that tolerance and acceptance of differences lead to strength and unity. History supports this lesson. The early Roman Empire thrived when it allowed diverse religions and cultures to coexist. The British Empire and the United States also found success when they embraced principles of religious freedom. On the other hand, history shows the downfall of nations when intolerance takes root. For example, the Roman Empire’s stability began to crumble when it persecuted Christians. These historical parallels remind us of the importance of respecting others and their beliefs.
This morning’s reading from The Rule of Benedict connects beautifully to this lesson. In the chapter called “The Reception of Visiting Monastics,” Benedict emphasizes the importance of hospitality. He tells the abbot to welcome visiting monastics, listen to them, and even invite them to stay if they are a good fit. However, if visitors are overly critical or disruptive, they should be asked to leave—but always with politeness and respect. Benedict’s guidance reflects a balance of kindness and discernment, teaching us how to welcome others without compromising the community’s well-being.
Benedict’s teaching parallels the story of Cyrus. Just as Cyrus allowed the Jewish people to return to their homeland and worship freely, Benedict reminds us to respect others’ paths even when we don’t fully agree. Hospitality, whether at a national level or in our personal lives, requires both love and wisdom. When we practice this kind of welcome, we not only help others but also open ourselves to see God’s presence in everyone.
On a personal level, this reflection challenges me to grow in tolerance. Jesus’ teaching, “Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also” (Matthew 5:39), calls us to a radical form of trust and love. This kind of tolerance doesn’t mean ignoring wrongdoing, but it does mean trusting that God is present even in difficult situations. It’s a call to love others as they are and to believe that God can bring good out of every circumstance.
Today is the Third Sunday of Advent, a season that reminds us of God’s unending work of salvation. Isaiah’s prophecy and Benedict’s teachings both show that God’s hand is always leading us toward His plan of love and redemption. The story of Cyrus shows us that God can use anyone, even those outside our faith, to bring about His purposes. This Advent, I long for peace in the world and the fullness of God’s salvation. Let us celebrate the coming of the Lord, who has prepared His creation, reached out to humanity, and revealed His eternal wisdom. Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
