DAILY ROMAN CATHOLIC READINGS AND SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS

Monday, 23rd December 2024
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MONDAY, FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT (O EMMANUEL)

Mal 3: 1-4, 23-24 Ps 25: 4-5,8-10,14 Lk 1: 57-66
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THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

In today’s first reading, Prophet Malachi talks about the coming of God’s messenger, who will prepare the way before the Lord. Israel knew these prophecies, but their faith was put to the test. During troubled times, they wondered if God had forgotten His promises. Today’s gospel marks the dawn of a new day. Luke wants to show us that a “new era” has dawned. And he points out how John is the forerunner of Jesus in more than one sense. The announcement of John’s birth is matched by the annunciation to Mary. And while Jesus’ birth brought joy to the world, expressed in the singing of the choirs of angels, John’s own birth is a matter of joy to the people around. Further, we see that John’s death at the hands of political authorities was also a rehearsal for Jesus’ own death, prompted by the jealousy of the scribes and Pharisees.

“What will this child turn out to be?” The neighbours ask, knowing that the hand of the Lord was with him. John’s father Zachariah, mute till now, regains his power of speech as soon as the name designated by the angel is confirmed. The people are filled with fear. They are filled with awe in the face of God’s wonderful deeds.

The name John means “the Lord is gracious.” God planned that John should prepare the way for the Lord. He was to be the messenger, to carry the good news to all those who were eagerly waiting for the Messiah. He introduced to the people the kingdom of God and directed them towards the Messiah. Thus, John fulfilled the purpose for which he was born, the mission that he was entrusted with by the Lord. Today, the forerunner of the Messiah exhorts us to undergo a genuine conversion of heart. Let us prayerfully prepare for the Lord’s return, striving to be His messengers of love and mercy to all humanity. Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!

Response: Look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.

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