December 24 Homily Morning Mass

Friday of the Fourth Week of Advent

December 24, Mass in the Morning
December 23, Simbang Gabi

Readings (Please click here to read full text.)
    Reading I: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
    Responsorial Psalm: Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29
    Gospel: Lk 1:67-79

If we give time in silence to reflect and pray, we will be able to see how God loves us.

In the whole 9 months of pregnancy of Elizabeth, Zechariah was not able to speak as a consequence of his unbelief to the words Archangel Gabriel told him.  He made of his time of silent life to reflect on the message of the angel. It was only after he named their child, John, that he spoke again. Our gospel today gives us the first words Zechariah spoke. We call this a song of thanksgiving.

This song summarized what Zechariah understood from the angel. He thanked God for coming to his people and setting them free, for raising up a mighty Savior, for saving God’s people from their enemies, showing mercy and remembering his holy covenant, for shining on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and guiding their feet into the way of peace. This song lists what Zechariah understood and thanked God for.

When you get home after this Mass, in these remaining days before Christmas, can you also spend time in silence and in prayer? Then, make a list of the things you want to thank God for in the year 2021. Despite the pain and hardships you endure, what are the good things God has done in your life?

Fr. Joel R. Lasutaz, SSS

Image credit: catholic-daily-reflections.com