The Mystery of Israel

St Paul speaks of the mystery of Israel as being of the same type as the mystery of the Church; the Church, so to speak, is grafted onto the root of Israel, who is the cultivated olive tree. (Rm 11:25).

Contemplative prayer allows us to share in God’s sentiments toward his people. We receive his burning love for the first-born Son, object of his constant predilection “on account of the patriarchs.” (Rm 11:28)

We let ourselves marvel over the splendor of the divine plan for Israel. Our contemplation will lead us to the doors of this mystery, which transcends our understanding. Like poor beggars we will set out to hear “what the Spirit says to the Churches,” knowing that a single revelation communicated to the heart by the Spirit can lead us to ponder the mystery of Israel.
Our contemplation will help us to experience God’s love for his people, and so we will receive this same desire that burns in Him for the firstborn son of his chosen people, who are still “beloved because of the patriarchs.” Each one of us will keep in our heart the intention of loving Israel, like God loves them and because God loves them, He whose gifts and call are irrevocable. He is so attached to the destiny of Israel that “He shielded them and cared for them, guarding them as the apple of his eye.” (Book of Life 89-90)

Intercession for the Jewish people, therefore, occupies an important and privileged place in our prayer life, so that God’s purpose for Israel may come to fruition.

The Community, seized by an eschatological tension in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, longs for a common Passover with Israel and for the glorious manifestation of the Lamb who will establish us in the final and everlasting Shabbat.

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!