YEAR A: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK OF ADVENT (1)
HOMILY: (Lk. 1:67-79) Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent, Ninth Day of Simbang Gabi
In today’s Gospel
YEAR A: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK OF ADVENT
HOMILY THEME: GOD FULFILLS PROMISES
BY: Fr. Benny Tuazon
HOMILY: (Lk. 1:67-79) Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent, Ninth Day of Simbang Gabi
In today’s Gospel, the Ninth Day of Simbang Gabi, Zechariah takes his turn to proclaim his own canticle for God. He expressed his praise, recognition of God’s promises, and action. As a Jew, it was the fulfillment of a long awaited promise of a Messiah. He was just too happy to have experienced it in his lifetime.
Like Mary, Zechariah received a great grace from God. The coming of a long awaited son was already great. When that son was given the task of preparing the coming of the Messiah, his pride and happiness could not be contained. He praised God who is almighty and generous. To bless is not necessarily to consecrate as what we usually know. When Zechariah blessed the Lord, it was meant as a thanksgiving and a recognition of God’s power. He immediately assumed a position of humility before God. He knew that God is the Creator and the Master.
Next he mentioned God’s fulfillment of His promises. Israel was never alone. Israel was never forsaken like how some had felt. The Messiah was sent to Israel for the salvation of men. They were the chosen people. From and through them, the Good News will be proclaimed all over the earth. Those who ruled and Lord it over apart from the way and will of the Lord will suffer defeat and shame. God made a promise. God will fulfill that promise.
Christmas is drawing very near. The excitement is mounting. Some are into the rush trying to meet some Christmas last minute preparations. Let us not forget our internal preparations. Let us make our souls Christmas-ready. Let do it by blessing the Lord, remember and appreciate His loving actions, reconcile with Him.
