Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Today's Scripture

As with all of Advent, today’s readings challenge us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the savior.  The prophet Malachi speaks of a messenger who is sent to prepare the way.  The messenger will testify to a covenant in which our loving God is coming.  Malachi prophesied to the people and called on them to purify themselves so as to be prepared for the coming of the Lord.  This purification and preparation not only prepares hearts for the Lord’s coming, but it also draws families closer to one another in love. 

As Christians, this prophecy is fulfilled in John the Baptist and the coming of Jesus. Even today’s psalm reflects a prophetic vision of the covenant the Lord desires to establish with each of us.  This savior will guide and teach us the ways of the Lord.  The ritual on today’s gospel is an extension of the covenant that God made with Abraham.  Thus John & later Jesus are circumcised as they are presented and initiated into their Jewish faith tradition.

While rituals give us a good understanding of how God works in the world.  Today’s Gospel reminds us that God’s ways are often mysteries.  For instance, Zechariah’s lack of trust in God’s plan for him caused him to lose the ability to speak.  Despite his original doubts, Zechariah names his son John and is given his voice back to praise God.

This Advent season is short-lived now, yet there is still time for us to prepare the way of the Lord.  Reflect on one way in which you could better place your life in the hands of God.  What change could you make in your life, so that the voice of praise would be heard within you?  How is God trying to bring this new life into your heart, into your family, and into our world through you?

"Good and loving God, You sent Your son to teach us your ways.  Help us Lord to lift up our heads and raise our voices in blessing to You.  Let the message of readiness each of us professes; bring Christ to birth again this day and always. Amen!”

-Michael Montgomery