Sermons

During the Advent season we hear from the prophets. Prophets are persons chosen to speak for God and to guide God’s people Israel. Prophets are said to be divinely inspired. The first week of advent we heard from Jeremiah a major prophet—the weeping prophet. On this second Sunday of Advent we hear from the prophet Malachi--the last book of the Old Testament. The book of Malachi is a fitting ending, because Malachi’s name which means “my messenger” is the last prophet of the Old Testament who prepares for the coming of Jesus (3:1).
Malachi proclaims that a holy messenger is on the way, and this announcement brings with it both a promise and a word of warning. This renewal comes through testing and cleansing. It is the refining fire that brings precious metal to light, and it is the washing with strong detergent.