December 24, 2022, Saturday of the Fourth Week in Advent-A

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

Psalm 89

Luke 1:67-79

“…the dawn from on high shall break upon us…”  Luke 1:78

Lord, your priest Zechariah spoke this hymn when the world still lay in darkness. His first words after nine months of silence were to proclaim praise and promise. He came to understand the unique and special mission that you gave to his son. He praised the Father for his child and for who this baby would become. This child, named John, would prepare the way for you to shine your light of salvation on all humankind. Lord, this is the last day of Advent. Tonight, and tomorrow the waiting will end, and the dawn of your glory will shine on all of us. I pray, Jesus, I have made fruitful preparation and am ready to receive all that you desire for me. Help me not to set my expectations too low. Lord, do the impossible in my life.  Make me bold and confident that you will not let this Christmas be like all the rest. As I worship you at Mass pour your powerful grace into my heart. Surround my family with your protection. Come into our lives like never before.  Amen.