Greetings on this the Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Readings: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24; Ps 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14; Lk 1:57-66
Summary
The Birth of John and the Canticle of Zechariah are our celebrated gospel portions for today and tomorrow morning (Tuesday evening is the Vigil of Christmas). It is one story given in two parts. It is one story about two persons. It is presented by Zechariah who was refined like gold or silver, that they may bring offerings to the LORD in righteousness.
Monday – Fulfillment of the Promise
He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. John means “Yahweh has shown favor”.
But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.”
Zechariah waited a long time to say that! To be exact, he waited nine months since the Angel visited. He was being refined as like our reading from Malachi. He also is referring to John in his life to be lived.
Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD. Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the LORD, as in the days of old, as in years gone by.
Tuesday – A Song of Thanksgiving and Mission (tomorrow’s reflection).
Reflection
Zechariah went through his own purification and given a silent retreat of nine months to consider his faith or lack thereof. His seclusion yielded a beautiful song of praise. The song speaks of the Messiah and the Herald intertwined is praise and mission but always for the redemption of Israel.
He has raised up a horn for our salvation within the house of David his servant.
Personal Reflection
It is a slow process to appreciate what is happening in sacred scripture. In the awaiting for the Messiah the family of people each given a part and parcel of the salvation story. None more closely related than John and Jesus. The Canticle of Zechariah weaves their story together as one story, one song, inseparable.
And so it is with us. The story is not over. Your life and your good will are gifts from the Lord and also individual expressions of the Lord among the people. May your journey in this life be intertwined with Jesus as John’s life was. It will be a truly blessed journey. It will be a marvelous song to sing in heaven.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122324.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!! 🎄