The Word

Malachi 3:1-4

See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.

Reflect

By Adrienne Griffin

Malachi is the last book of the grouping known as the 12 minor prophets; in fact, it is the last book of the Old Testament. So it seems fitting that we read it at the end of the calendar year. But Advent is the first part of the liturgical year, and it emphasizes newness and beginnings. Most scholars believe that the book was written by one person, whose name may or may have not been Malachi, which means “Messenger” in Hebrew. This Messenger was likely speaking to Israel after it had returned from exile because the text uses a word for “governor” that dates from the Persian period of Israel’s history. The whole book is organized into a series of situations or subjects about which, the Messenger declares, God is not pleased—at all. Hey, don’t shoot the messenger, one can imagine our Malachi protesting.

In chapter 3, the message is that God is sending a messenger to prepare the way. And after that preparation the Lord will “suddenly come to his temple.” I must admit that when I first read this selection, I had a lot of questions. For one thing I lose track of who is coming – the messenger or the Lord? Is the message a bad one, if we cannot stand when he appears or even endure the day of his coming? Isn’t this part of the Messiah?

One interpretation of Malachi, according to some commentary, is that the prophet needed to explain to the Israelites why their post-exile lives were not better. Although the temple had been rebuilt, some practices were corrupt and many seemed to have forgotten their covenant with God. Later in chapter 3, Malachi speaks of bearing witness against many, including those who swear falsely, those who oppress the hired workers in their wages, and those who thrust aside the alien.

Although it sounds difficult and possibly painful to be refined with fire or like fullers’ soap, the text does say that the descendants of Levi are going to be refined like silver and gold, which to me means that the people are precious metals underneath the things that cause them to need purifying. In another part of chapter 3, God reminds them in this way: “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, have not perished. Ever since the days of your ancestors you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts.”

As Christians, we can also read this part of Malachi as a precursor of John preparing the way for Jesus. John called for repentance before baptism, and although he baptized with water, he recognized that Jesus would baptize with fire, and with the Holy Spirit. I don’t particularly look forward to being refined, but I do think Advent is a good time to think about what needs some changing or polishing in my own life. That thought process and resulting actions might not be easy, but because we’re moving together toward the nativity, I know the ending is good. When I think about the new beginning Christ’s coming always offers, I understand Malachi’s question—“who can stand when he appears?”—as an exclamation of wonder and awe.

Listen

By Dr. Ben Hutchens

A Live Recording from Westminster’s Service of Advent Lessons & Carols 2023

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a beloved Advent hymn that originates from the early medieval period, associated with the liturgy of the Catholic Church. The carol is a paraphrase of the “O Antiphons,” which are ancient chants that date back to the 8th century and are recited in the days leading up to Christmas. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics evoke a deep sense of longing and anticipation for the coming of Christ. The verses speak not only to the historical expectation of the Messiah but resonate with the universal theme of hope, especially during challenging times. Each verse addresses Emmanuel, a name meaning “God with us,” highlighting different aspects of His promised salvation.

The structure of the hymn encourages reflection, as the repetition of the phrases creates a sense of building urgency and yearning. With each invocation of “O come,” the faithful are reminded of the need for divine presence and intervention in their lives and the world. The imagery in the lyrics draws from the rich tapestry of biblical prophecy, incorporating themes of liberation from darkness, the restoration of joy, and the coming of peace. As a centerpiece of Advent celebrations, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” invites congregations to unite in prayerful anticipation, bridging the gap between the historical and the modern-day longing for hope and redemption.