As Morning Dawns

Zechariah’s tongue is freed. With full voice, he praises God for his son, John. Zechariah cuddles his young miracle, proclaiming him the forerunner of the Messiah. From Zechariah’s mouth that had been hushed, his words ring out to us who wait in Advent hope. We too raise our voices on this quiet morning because we know what is to come—Jesus, the Incarnate Love of God.  

Our hearts ache to be freed. In Advent, we cultivate desire for God, both within us and in our world. As we wait for the Promise of Peace, we form long-awaited words to speak out against injustice. We shout from within the darkness of sin, addiction, self-loathing, and doubt, because we know that the dawn from on high shall break upon us. We care for the weary. We speak on behalf of people whose voices have been silenced by power, abuse, and corruption. We treasure gifts, not wrapped in cheap paper, but wrapped with the mercy, forgiveness, and love born within us.  

Quickly, God, free us. Come quickly, not just as infant, but as Messiah.

We beg Christ to come yet again, not just today, but at the end of time. Tonight, we shall settle into a quiet night, a silent night, and hear the echoes of Zechariah’s canticle ring in our hearts. We shall sing as morning dawns. The Messiah is born here in our human frailty, in our pregnant hearts. He shall guide our feet into the way of peace, one step at a time. Jesus Christ brings us home to Kingdom love, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.    

Fr. Ronald Patrick Raab, CSC

My thanks to Liturgical Press for the opportunity to write for Give Us This Day. This is the last Mass of Advent.