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The dawn from on high shall break upon us, to guide our feet on the road to peace. (Lk 1:78-79). The Communion Antiphon today quotes this part of the Benedictus, Zechariah's song of praise at the birth of his son John, who would become the Baptist. Jesus lamented over Jerusalem: "If only you too had recognized on this day the way to peace!" Unlike many of the people at the time, Zechariah did recognize the time of God's visitation.
"The dawn from on high" is a Messianic title. The prophet Malachi (Mal 3:20) looked forward to the coming of the Sun of Justice. Isaiah proclaimed: "the people that have walked in darkness have seen a great light" (9:1). He revealed the word God spoke to his Chosen Servant: "I have made you a covenant of the people and light to the nations" (42:7). Advent, then, is a season of expectation for an end to the darkness of sin in the world. During his Public Life, Jesus takes all these Messianic promises to himself when he proclaims "I am the light of the world" (Jn 8:12).
Father in Heaven we praise you: you have shown your merciful love for us in your Son Jesus, who comes to us as the dawn from on high to guide our footsteps on the pathways of peace.
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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 children may be respected and loved and never be the victims of exploitation in its various forms.
Elaboration
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