Wednesday, December 24th

Scripture

2 Sam 7: 1-5, 8-12, 14-16
Ps 89: 2-5, 27, 29
Lk 1: 67-79

Reflection

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people and
set them free. In the tender compassion of our God, the dawn from on
high shall break upon us… to guide our feet in the way of peace.”
Lk 1: 76-77

Today’s gospel is an expression of faith restored, promises fulfilled, and hope renewed. After months of silence, Zechariah’s first words are of praise. His heart overflows, recognizing God’s mercy and faithfulness. Like Zechariah, we are often asked to trust what seems impossible. Sometimes we wait a long time for God’s promises to take shape. And sometimes, the waiting feels like silence. But even in that silence, God is at work. When the light begins to rise, our calling is to recognize it and join it – to speak works of blessing, to prepare the way for peace, to carry the light into places of fear and doubt.

Prayer

God of mercy and light, open our lips as you opened Zechariah’s,
that we may bless you with joy.
Open our eyes that we may see your dawn breaking upon us.
Open our hearts to carry your peace into the world you love.
Amen.

Personal Challenge

Today, notice where the dawn is breaking…a kind word, a moment
of forgiveness, a new beginning you didn’t expect.
Bless God for remembering you, visiting you,
for bringing light into your world again.

Bea Boyd, CSJ Associate
Chicago, IL