VATICAN CITY, APR 17, 2002 (VIS) - In this Wednesday's general audience celebrated in St. Peter's Square, John Paul II spoke about the hymn of the prophet Isaiah, "Joy of the redeemed people," that concludes the part of the Bible known as "the book of Emmanuel."
The Pope emphasized that certain themes are evoked in this hymn such as "salvation, trust, joy, divine action, the presence among the people of the 'Holy One of Israel', an expression that indicates the transcendent 'holiness' of God, as well as His loving and active closeness, which the people of Israel can count on."
In the first part of the hymn, the theme of salvation is predominant and the psalmist "is certain that at the root of liberation and of hope divine grace is found."
"Salvation given by God, Who is capable of causing joy to bloom and inspiring trust even in the dark day of trial, is represented by the image of water, a classic image in the Bible, which is the "grace of the Holy Spirit." He added that "unfortunately, humanity frequently abandons this source that quenches the thirst of the whole being of the person."
The Holy Father affirmed that the second part "is a continual call to joyful praise in the Lord's honor. ... At the center of praise, there is the unique profession of faith in God the Savior Who is at work in history and is close to His creatures, sharing their vicissitudes."
"Salvation, obtained (from God), must be born witness to in the world, in such a way that all of humanity go to those sources of peace, joy and freedom."
In his greetings at the end of the general audience, the Pope addressed in a special way a group of priests from Vietnam who have recently completed their studies in Europe and are returning to their country: "Dear priests, tell your brothers and sisters in the faith that I pray for them every day; I pray for peace and progress in all the nation."
AG;HYMN ISAIAH;...;...;VIS;20020417;Word: 350;
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment