The promise

December 24, Saturday, 4th Week of Advent
Daily Readings: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8B-12, 14A, 16; Gospel: Luke 1:67-79

The first reading tells how God kept his promises to David by protecting him from his enemies. In today’s gospel, Zechariah praises God for all the great things he has done for his people, including setting them free from enemies and giving them the freedom to express their faith without fear. The Saviour is coming from the clan of David, and God sent a great prophet to prepare his way.
 
The word "promise" is defined as a declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that a particular thing will happen. We always hear that promises are made to be broken. But this is not the case with God. God’s promises of salvation to his people are about to be fulfilled. He is sending a great prophet to inform the people that the Savior is coming. The preparation of the way is not a preparation for the Saviour's grand entrance, but rather a call to conversion and repentance of sins.

In the Catholic tradition, during this time of waiting, there is a lot of preparation. Aside from the decorations, the church offers Advent Recollection and encourages people to take part in the sacrament of reconciliation.  Even in my own practice, I see to it that before Christmas day I go to confession as part of my spiritual preparation for the coming of the Lord.  In this way, the preparation is very holistic.

Lord, we thank you for fulfilling your promise that you will never abandon your people. As your arrival approaches, teach our hearts to make the necessary preparations so that we can wait for you in a meaningful way.