The Church's favorite Old Testament readings for Advent are from the prophet Isaiah. The first reading for much of Advent is taken from the Isaiah who preached at a time when his nation was at its most depressed. Exiled in Babylon (587 BC) and away from his native soil, Isaiah saw through what was happening and glimpsed the mercy and the majesty of God. The result is some of the most magnificent poetry in the Bible. Today, 2500 years later, we can still share in his hope that God will come and save his people.

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Excerpt from Advent: A Quality Storecupboard. The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.