Fourth Sunday of Advent

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel” Lk. 1:67-79

The Canticle of Zechariah begins by praising God for what He has done for Israel. The so-called “Benedictus” sings the proclamation of the messianic character of Jesus, of his being anointed by the Spirit of God for the liberation of his people. Once again, God’s fidelity to the promise appears, his fidelity to the covenant He makes with human beings, in which He is the first to make a commitment.

The Gospel invites us to recognize God’s presence in humanity. An example of this recognition is John. He appears as the prophet of the Most High who will have the mission of going before the Lord and preparing the way for the event of the kingdom that will bring justice, mercy, deliverance, and peace. It will be the preaching of reconciliation and conversion demanded of the people, in order to open ourselves to God’s salvation.

O Lord, guide our steps in the ways of PEACE!