Christmas Eve

Luke 1 : 67 - 79

He, the Day spring, shall visit us in his mercy; to shine on those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

The waiting has come to a good end for my two friends in hospital. My friend's blood count has gone back to fairly normal and she is able to go home. The other friend, waiting for her husband to recover from a bone marrow transplant has had her prayers answered. As she expressed, "Deo Gratias". Such is the Advent journey of two people I know. This season has been a journey too for many others, in different ways, and each of us in our lives can understand what it is to "wait" trustfully for the "coming of the Lord".

Zechariah's prophecy announces the fulfillment of God's promise to come to his people. He came though, in a way many could not recognize; nor did they give him the welcome of One who is King. God's Word has come into our midst. We can proclaim the Lord as our darkness is shattered and Christ shines forth into our lives.

Even if we are still in waiting for particular situations in our lives, we know his coming is certain. We ask for the grace to recognize him, for he may indeed break into our realities in surprising ways.

Thank you O God, for this season of Advent. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may bring to birth Your Son in our lives. Renew us in Your love. Grant us peace, that we may rest in You. Maranatha, come Lord Jesus.