Daily Catholic Mass Readings for December 23, 2024
First Reading: Malachi 3.1-4; 4.5-6
1Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.2But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap:3And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.4Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years.
Psalm 25
1Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul.2O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.3Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.4Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.5Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.6Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.7Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD.8Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.9The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.10All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.11For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.12What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.13His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.14The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.15Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.16Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.17The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses.18Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.19Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.20O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.21Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.22Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.
Gospel: Luke 1.57-66
57Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.58And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.59And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.60And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.61And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.62And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.63And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.64And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.65And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.66And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through themes of preparation, purification, and the fulfillment of prophecy, weaving together the voices of Malachi and Luke to guide our spiritual reflection.
The first reading from Malachi paints a vivid picture of God's messenger preparing the way for the Sovereign, using the imagery of refining fire to symbolize spiritual purification. This messenger, identified as Elijah, is tasked with restoring family bonds, emphasizing reconciliation and the healing of relationships. This prophecy sets the stage for the arrival of one who will bring justice and righteousness.
In the Gospel of Luke, we witness the fulfillment of this prophecy through the birth of John the Baptist. The narrative highlights the miraculous events surrounding his naming, where Zechariah regains his speech and proclaims God's blessings. This moment not only fulfills Malachi's prophecy but also underscores John's role as the Elijah figure, preparing the way for Jesus. The awe of the people and the recognition of God's hand on John illustrate the significance of his mission.
Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded of the importance of preparing our hearts for the Lord's presence in our lives. Just as John turned hearts towards God, we are called to be instruments of reconciliation and purification. Our daily lives should mirror John's obedience and trust in God, even when circumstances are unexpected. Let us embrace the call to be bridges between tradition and innovation, fostering healing and unity in our families and communities. May we, like John, be open to God's will, serving as beacons of preparation and purification in a world awaiting redemption.