December 24

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 66 The Porter of the Monastery
Mass in the Morning: 2 S 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Resp Ps 89; Lk 1:67-79
Vigil Mass: Is 62:1-5; Resp Ps 89; Ac 13:16-17, 22-25; Mt 1:1-25

Behold, when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son into the world.

Advent concludes today before First Vespers (Evening Prayer I) of Christmas. Hence, there's still time for one more photo of our Advent wreath. We may find ourselves busy with last minute preparations. Let us bring to mind all those who have gone before us; those people of silence, prayer, listening, and action: Joseph, the wife of Manoah, Elizabeth, John the Baptist, Mary. An added bonus is today's reading from the Holy Rule where we hear about the porter of the monastery, the one who welcomes guests and pilgrims. St Benedict instructs: "As soon as anyone knocks, or a poor man calls out, the porter replies, 'Thanks be to God' or 'Your blessing, please'; then, with all gentleness that comes from the fear of God, she provides a prompt answer with the warmth of love" (RB 65:3-4). Something to keep in mind when unexpected guests arrive at our door these days. All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ … Proper honor must be shown to all (RB 53:1-2).

Come quickly, we pray, Lord Jesus,

and do not delay,

that those who trust in your compassion

may find solace and relief in your coming.

Who live and reign with God the Father

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever.

(Collect, Mass in the Morning)

FOREVER I WILL SING THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD.

I will raise up your heir after you, spring from your loins, and I will make his Kingdom firm.

In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high will break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

As a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.

Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.

She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.

FOREVER I WILL SING THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD.

Sanctify yourselves today and be prepared. Sanctify yourselves more and more, by advancing from virtue to virtue, and prepare yourselves by perseverance in good … Sanctify yourselves today and be prepared. Tomorrow you shall see and shall rejoice and your joy shall be full.
(Bernard of Clairvaux)

Marana tha! Come, Lord, Jesus!