Reflecting on God’s Promises This Advent Season

Greetings on this the Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Mass in the Morning
Readings: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; PS 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29; Lk 1:67-79

Summary

Advent is but a few hours remaining now. By 4:00 PM we enter the night-watch for the birth of Jesus. A spiritual welcome for him. In our first reading today, King David is settled in, comfortable and safe all around. In some ways David thought this was the end of turmoil and strife. The Lord had fulfilled all He promised. As far as he could tell. But the Lord has a more wonderful plan. To David he said, “And when your time comes and you rest with your ancestors” the Lord is not done but will continue to build up the Kingdom of God.

I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins,
and I will make his Kingdom firm.
I will be a father to him,
and he shall be a son to me.
Your house and your Kingdom shall endure forever before me;
your throne shall stand firm forever.’”

This heir is Jesus.

Reflection

Tuesday – A Song of Thanksgiving and Mission (today’s reflection). The Canticle of Zechariah is said every morning in the Church. It is a reminder of thanks and mission.

Promises Made (What)

1. To be set free.
2. Save us from enemies and those who hate us.
3. Show Mercy to our fathers.
4. Remember the Holy Covenant.
5. Free to worship, and act rightly in all things.
6. Knowledge of salvation.
7. Forgiveness of Sins.
8. To Shine on us and Guide us in the ways of peace.

Promise Kept (Who)

1. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant David [Jesus].
2. [John] You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, to go before the Most High.
3. The herald who points us to the Christ.

Personal Reflection

Hours before we celebrate Jesus’ birth we celebrate the promise. The Lord has made promises he will keep. Always and forever. Let us make our final preparations for the coming of the Lord.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122424.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry