of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2024 WEEK FOUR OF ADVENT – MASS DURING THE DAY

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2024 WEEK FOUR OF ADVENT – MASS DURING THE DAY


ZECHARIAH’S SONG (LK 1:67-79)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Teach me to praise the Father.

Imagination:

Picture Zechariah prophesying by God’s Spirit.

Context:

This canticle has two parts. The first half praises God for his blessings to Israel. The second half prophecies the effects of John the Baptist’s ministry.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

  1. The Holy Spirit falls upon Zechariah like he did upon Elizabeth.
  2. Zechariah foresees the whole plan of God being fulfilled.
  3. The Holy Spirit reveals a future divine visitation of Israel.
  4. Israel will be free to worship God without any fear.
  5. This child will be “the prophet of the Most High”, greater than any other.
  6. He is the final prophet, going before the “face of the Lord”.
  7. He will provide “knowledge of salvation”, so people can seek “forgiveness of their sins.”
  8. Jesus, the “Dawn from on high”, will enter a human race which lives “in the shadow of death.”
  9. Everyone’s feet will be directed toward the fullness of God’s blessings.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

  • O Jesus, save me from my enemies, from temptations, trials, hardships and discouragement.
  • Let me worship you without fear!
  • Who am I, Lord? Why did you create me? What is my call?
  • Jesus, you always go before me and you are with me until the end.
  • Fill me with knowledge of salvation and forgiveness of my sins.
  • Jesus, you are the Dawn.
  • When you come to me, night will end and death will have no power.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will recall the dreams of my youth.
+ I will bless God who does not disappoint.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)