Por Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB –

What a tremendous privilege is ours, that God should dwell amidst humanity! That the eternal God, “Mighty Savior,” should come and assume and cleanse our human race. The prophet Zephaniah could not have known the full meaning of what he said, that in truth, one day when sinfulness was to be conquered, darkness overcome, God would dwell anew in Jerusalem. The joy Zephaniah calls for of old is our joy too in this Advent season. “The King of Israel, the LORD your God is in your midst,” said the prophet. Rejoice! That is the Faith of God’s new people as we renew the joy of the Savior’s birth, God with us.

Likewise, our response this day also comes from Isaiah (14:6), “Cry out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.” We have come a long way since Isaiah and Zephaniah of old called to praise and exult over God’s presence. We know who the “Holy One” is, and St. Paul too exclaims, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” It is all very consistent with the spirit of this Season. We have yearned for our Savior and He comes.

Paul tells how to find rejoicing. Be kind to one another. Shun anxiety and trust in the Lord. Avoid being swamped by cares, but in everything pray and petition the Lord. This is the season of giving. It would be typical of St. Paul to add that God gave the incomparable gift of his Son to us. Would He refuse what you ask in the Namie of His infant Son? Pray! “Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” That is the Peace in which we rejoice.

Luke’s Gospel gives some of the exhortations of the new prophet, St. John the Baptist. Accepting them brings peace and joy, for he teaches the way of the Lord. For all, defeat your selfishness. Share your clothing and food with the poor. For those who hold power and prey on others like tax collectors who overcharge or soldiers who display their power to extort or falsely arrest, all for money. Be satisfied with what is just, John is not the Messiah, but one who is coming truly is. Greet him joyfully with right and fair living. 

Come, Child Jesus, Lord of Glory!  We Love You!