Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Psalm 25; Luke 1:57-66
The Gospel presents us witht the birth of John the Baptist and the restoration of his father’s speech. John was sent by God just as Elijah was sent in the first reading. They had similar roles; they were to prepare the world before the day of the Lord comes. The first reading says “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the day of the Lord comes.” Beloved, these messnegers are very much present today in our priests, teachers and teaching office of the Church – all to prepare us before the day of the Lord comes. Let us learn to prepare. Whoever fails to prepare prepares to fail.
Let us pray
Almighty ever-living God, as we see how the Nativity of your Son according to the flesh draws near, we pray that to us, your unworthy servants, mercy may flow from your Word, who chose to become flesh of the Virgin Mary and establish among us his dwelling, Jesus Christ our Lord. Who lives and reigns with and the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen
