Readings:
2 Second Samuel 7: 1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
Luke 1:67-79
Reflection:
Our reading today is the story of Zechariah’s song of praise to God after the birth of his son, John which has many parallels with Mary’s Magnificat.
Also known as the Benedictus, the passage is firmly rooted in the Old Testament and the faith story of the people. Zechariah’s song is a prayer of thanksgiving to God for saving his people and fulfilling his promises. It is also a prophecy about the coming of the Saviour, Jesus Christ, and the role John the Baptist would play in preparing the way for him.
John is the prophet who will go before the Lord to prepare the way and give knowledge of salvation. The tender mercy of God offers light, hope and the way of peace.
As we move into Christmas Eve, our reading reminds us again of how mercy is the dominant theme of how God walks with us.
May we grow daily in the awareness of God’s mercy and tenderness, constantly at work in our lives.
Joanne McGrath is a parishioner of St Brigid’s Marrickville and a Passionist Companion.
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