The prophets of the Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures acted as spokespersons for God. They were, as the literal Greek interpretation of the word prophet suggests, broadcasters of God's message. They were not foretellers but forth-tellers, who reminded their world of how life is to be lived in relationship with God.

At times the prophets seemed severe and hypercritical; yet in other instances they were genuinely hopeful. They saw the injustices of their time and called the Chosen People back into a relationship with God and neighbor. They chastised Israel for relying on the world's ways and its lack of faithfulness. An essential part of the prophetic message was the need to trust in God above all else. They spoke of God's enduring love and fidelity for the Chosen People.

We are familiar with the names of Hebrew prophets: Amos, Hosea, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and more. Many had families and jobs; some were poor and others were wealthy; they were living day-to-day until they heard God's call.

Today's Prophetic Voice

The Hebrew prophets (Amos, Hosea, Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc.) lived the contemplative stance. Formed in prayer, they spoke God's word and acted on it. But the gift of prophecy, the gift of hearing and speaking the word of God, did not end with them. Jesus was the prophet par-excellence. Countless men and women over the last 2000 years have also challenged society when they saw injustice. Contemporary prophets include such famous individuals as Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., Dorothy Day, and Jean Vanier. But many ordinary people have also committed themselves to the contemplative life of prayer and work for justice. The mission of today's prophets is just as important.

In the same way, each of us, at some point in our lives, is called to be a prophet, a role that may take on numerous expressions. Contemplative prayer is the source of the prophetic voice, raising our awareness of injustice and inspiring us, the Body of Christ, to engage the world and work for right relationships among God, neighbor and creation.

Today more than ever we need to hear the prophetic voice crying out for the common good. Isaiah wrestled with the voice of God calling, "Whom shall I send? Who will be my messenger?" At last, Isaiah answered, "I will go! Send me!"

If today you hear God's call, how will you answer?

Questions For Reflection

1. Which prophet in this reflection do I identify with?
2. What, in particular, did this prophet say or do that inspires me?
3. In what way am I called to be God's messenger today?