"Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for He has visited his people and redeemed them." The Song of Zechariah, at the naming of his son, John the Baptist. It's a hymn of praise to God, for the sending of the Messiah and the one who was foretold to come before Him preparing His way. It recalls the promises made to God's people over the centuries, and rejoices that these are now fulfilled in Christ. King David (in 2 Sam 7) worried about building a proper dwelling place for the Lord, but was reminded that all his achievements were the Lord's doing; it wasn't for him to be making arrangements for the Lord. Instead, he was told that his own house would become great and that its power would endure for ever. This was a prophecy that referred to David's descendant, the Christ who was to be the House of God among the earth's people, God-with-us.
Zechariah recognised the fulfilling of these prophecies; and then in a touching personal fatherly way addressed his own son, "you, little child", as the Lord's prophet who would make known to His people that their salvation that was at hand. As we await the dawn of Christmas, may we feel the wonder and power of these biblical words and images. May we help to make known the One who 'visits us like the dawn from on high'. May we greet and welcome into our troubled, distracted world Him who "will give light to those in darkness, those who dwell in the shadow of death, and guide us into the way of peace."
Lord we adore You.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That the members of all religions, may cooperate to alleviate the human sufferings of our time.
Elaboration
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