Table of the Word:
Malachi 3:1–4, 23–24 (4:5–6)
Luke 1:57–66
Theme: Preparing the Way of the Lord: Turning Hearts in Hopeful Expectation
Reflection
Today's liturgy turns our attention to preparation and fulfillment. Through the prophet Malachi, God promises to send a messenger who will prepare the way of the Lord and turn hearts back to Him, restoring relationships between generations (cf. Malachi 3:1–4, 23–24 (4:5–6). This promise finds its fulfillment in the birth of John the Baptist, whose arrival fills his family and neighbours with awe and holy fear.
In the Gospel pericope according to Evangelist Luke 1:57–66, the unexpected naming of the child as John -“God is gracious”- signals that God is acting decisively in history. Even before his public ministry, John’s life points beyond himself to the Lord who is coming. It is against this background that Advent season reminds us that God often works through humble, hidden beginnings to accomplish great things.
In these final days before Christmas, we are invited to allow God to purify our hearts, heal broken relationships, and awaken in us a deeper sense of wonder at His saving plan.
+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let us pray
Almighty ever-living God, as we see how the Nativity of your Son according to the flesh draws near, we pray that to us, your unworthy servants, mercy may flow from your Word, who chose to become flesh of the Virgin Mary and establish among us his dwelling, Jesus Christ our Lord. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
© The ARCHIVE 23122025
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