The Gospel is the hymn known as the 'Benedictus', recited every day in the Liturgy of the Hours by priests and religious. It is a hymn of praise sung by Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, on the occasion of his son's birth. He thanks God for having visited His people bringing them freedom and liberation. He foretells too that this little baby will go before the Lord, 'the rising Sun who is to visit us', to prepare the way by repentance for sin.

In the first reading David is embarrassed that he lives in a palace while the Lord has only a tent. But the Lord tells him that in time He will build a house for Himself. For us this is not just the great Temple that Solomon built but the womb of Mary where Jesus stayed for nine months. Because of this she has been called Ark of the Covenant. But God also has a Temple in the Body of Jesus. And, after His Resurrection, that Temple is the Christian community. We need to remember that through us the work and mission of Jesus is continued for all time.