DECEMBER 24: And you, child, will be called prophet of the Most High, because you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways (v 76). (2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Psalm 89) LUKE 1:67-79 When Zechariahs tongue was loosened, he broke into a hymn of praise in thanksgiving to God for blessing him and his wife Elizabeth with a child in their old age. Like the canticle of Mary, this Benedictus was a compilation of Scripture and Jewish prayers. Zechariah proclaimed that his son was destined to be a prophet of the Most High who would prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah, Gods anointed one. God had visited the people with loving-kindness and mercy. Gods promise of salvation was fulfilled in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ, the daybreak from on high (v 78). The light of Christ would shatter the darkness that overshadowed the people (Is 60:1), and guide them on the pathway to peace (Shalom in Hebrew). Peace does not mean merely freedom from war and strife; it means all that works for common good. Jesus Christ would enable people to walk in the ways that lead to life, and no longer trod the path that leads to death. Jesus is truly the light of our life guiding our feet to the kingdom of God. If we choose to walk in His light, we will shun the darkness of sin. St. John chose to lead a very austere life in the wilderness because of his great shame for mankind’s sins. He was the greatest of God’s prophets, chosen by God to “prepare the way of the Lord.” He exhorted all who listened to repent and turn from their sinful ways. He walked his talk, living a life of suffering, penitence and martyrdom, in imitation of Jesus Christ, Who was coming after him. St John may well be one of our greatest models, following only our Savior and His Mother. Reflecting on today’s Word: “… to guide our feet into the path of peace,” (Lk.1:79), we are given light in this eve of Christmas that peace will inevitably come to our land, and the suffering and poverty of our people will surely come to an end. This is the hope that Christmas always brings, because it is during this time that everyone considers each other as brothers and sisters. Maybe that is why despite the prevailing economic crisis, people can still afford to GIVE, and congregate in one Christmas party after another – if only to share with others this feeling of love and caring for one another. This is the true meaning of Christmas – putting into action the compassion, generosity and the love of God for the afflicted. Have my words and deeds proclaimed peace this Advent? Lord God, thank you for showing us your mercy by sending your Son to lead us to the light. Amen…
Posted on: Wed, 24 Dec 2014 00:16:45 +0000
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