In the English language, the word “woe” is used to express grief, regret, misfortune or grievous distress stated from such a great affliction of some sort or being in such trouble that an escape out of it seems impossible. However, in the Scriptures, “woe” is more than a simple expression of feelings. Both the prophets and Jesus use the word to indicate impending doom, condemnation and/or the wrath of God. It carries with it the notion of judgment and punishment.
So when Zephaniah says, “Woe to the tyrannical city,” he is telling the citizens of Jerusalem that the judgment of God is about to fall upon the city. By visiting wrath upon the city, God hopes to purify the lips of the people so that they will no longer utter the name of the pagan gods or goddesses that have replaced the God of Israel. They have sinned against the first commandment which is really the basis of all the other commandments. They have forsaken God and forgotten the covenant that God forged with them on Mount Sinai.
Immediately following the words of condemnation and destruction, Zephaniah speaks of healing. God will heal the defects of the people. In this context, Zephaniah introduces an important Biblical concept; namely, the remnant of Israel.
We all know what remnants are. They are the left overs. They are the parts that are overlooked, the scraps finished after we have eaten, the pieces that are left over after the tailor or seamstress has cut the cloth. Zephaniah characterizes the few faithful people as the remnant of Israel. When Luke writes his Gospel, he begins by introducing the faithful people who will effect the reconciliation between God and Israel. Zechariah, Elizabeth, John, Mary, Joseph, Simeon and Anna are all part of the remnant of Israel. Through them the Messiah is introduced and born into the world.
Remnants are often thought of as unimportant. However, in terms of God’s plan for our salvation, the remnants are the important left overs who, when they cooperate with God’s grace, make a beautiful quilt of reconciliation. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator