Rahab’s story:
Rahab’s story in the book of Joshua is a powerful example of courage, faith, and redemption. When two Israelite spies enter Jericho to scout the land, Rahab—a woman who runs an inn—hides them from the king’s men. She risks her life to protect them, declaring her belief in the God of Israel, saying, “I know that the Lord has given you this land.” In return for her help, she asks the spies to spare her and her family when the city is conquered.
The spies agree and instruct her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign. Rahab helps them escape safely, and later, when Jericho falls, her household is saved. Her faith and actions not only secure her family’s survival but also earn her a place in Israel’s history – and in the genealogy of Jesus.
Reflection:
Rahab was a foreigner and a prostitute. Yet she showed radical love – risking her life to protect the Israelite spies. Her love wasn’t sentimental; it was sacrificial.
Advent love is like that: bold, inclusive, and risky. Rahab’s love changed history. She reminds us that love crosses boundaries. That God’s love chooses the outsider. Who is God calling you to love – especially when it’s hard?
Herald of Advent exists on the fringes, judged, tolerated, just.
Socially outcast, often shunned, except by Him here within these walls,
discerning His needs birth's love in my heart finds freedom from shame,
caught in the cross-fire of brutal conflict - seizes opportunity -
risky bargain hides spies in flaxen stalks, threatened family spared strife.
Does He remember me? When the women follow passion palms of praise.
Their silent witness voicing injustices done. His mercy flows forth -
from my submission to Jochabed's deception like a scarlet thread
joining us bookends, all part of God's faithful plan. Responding with grace,
in timeless embrace, as from the manger I am woven with Mary,
more than just a harlot, heart to heart with Christ, life breathes transfigured through us
waiting patiently in expectation for God to come again now.
