The Scripture readings that begin the grand finale to Advent which begins every December 17th make clear that the prophecies stating that the Messiah would come from the tribe of Judah are fulfilled in Jesus. The assumptions are that the Messianic prophecies are true and very important in God's plan of salvation.

Do you know what prophecy is? Do you want to know? Do you see why the Church is founded on the apostles and the prophets? (Eph 2:20) Is it important to you that you were baptized into Jesus, the Prophet? Why is much of the Bible made up of prophecies? Do you see why the Church reads the prophecies of Isaiah each Advent to prepare us for Christmas? Have you obeyed the Lord's command to seek zealously the gift of prophecy? (1 Cor 14:1) Have you reacted to false prophecy by ignoring all prophecy?

Prophecy is a message from God. The Lord has decided to make prophecy very important in His plan of salvation. Therefore, we must enter fully into Jesus' prophetic ministry by reading the prophets of the Bible, obeying them, listening to prophets who prophesy according to the Church's teaching (especially the Scriptures), and sharing any words of prophecy we may receive. Prophecy prepared the way for the first Christmas. It will do the same for this Christmas.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert A. Stricker, June 23, 2003

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 26, 2003