2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16 Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29 Lk 1:67-79

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections Praying Advent

"In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in the darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace." Lk 1:67-79

On the eve of a certain momentous day, this except from the end of Luke's Gospel passage does well in paving the way for the joy and celebration of life that is Christmas. This verse tells about what Christ's birth entails, and also gets the reader into the right state of mind in order to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The passage uses bright imagery such as "the dawn from on high shall break upon us" not only to describe the imminent coming of Christ, but also that we as disciples should be rejoicing in the rising of the sun (Son?) and prepare for that day with gladness. The passage also creates optimism as the dawn will "shine on those who dwell in the darkness and the shadow of death," and that peace and prosperity shall prevail and will always prevail in the end. The fact that we as Christians build up to and celebrate Christmas every year serves as a reminder that the sun always rises, and to remember that there is peace and happiness waiting for us when we open our arms to the light of God's compassion and unconditional love.

So today, prepare for the coming of Christ in joyous fashion, gather in the light of a community of friends, neighbors, or family, and celebrate when the dawn finally breaks.

Have a Merry Christmas Eve and a Happy Holidays!