St. John of the Cross lived in sixteenth century Spain. Buoyed by New World gold, the nation reached its zenith in power and prestige. St. John questioned the affluence, at least as much as it meant a relaxation in religious life. Along with St. Teresa of Avila, John set about reforming the Carmelite Order. Poverty characterized the reform’s exterior discipline. More critically, the reformers concentrated on prayer and contemplation.
John’s reform of the Carmelites echoes the call of Zephaniah to Judah in today’s first reading. The prophet first castigates Jerusalem for wanton behavior. He complains that the city does not listen to God’s voice but does what it pleases. He sees conversion in its future, however. In Zephaniah’s vision Jerusalem becomes an example writ large of the first son in Jesus’ gospel parable. The son claims that he will not obey his father. Then he comes to his senses and does his father’s will.
Faith calls us as well to reform our ways. We have to abandon our desire for comfort and thank God for simple things. We must also forsake our penchant for entertainment to pursue a deeper relationship with God in prayer. Prayer and simplicity of life will lead us to Christmas peace.