December 23, Wednesday Advent Weekday

Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.-- Luke 21:28

Mass readings: Malachi 3:1-4,23-24 / Luke 1:57-66

The Stage is Set

Plays and major stage productions all require a dress rehearsal. Participants wear their costumes, proclaim their lines, and sing their songs as if the theater was full of eager viewers. In the great stage play of Salvation History, John the Baptist was the dress rehearsal for Jesus. The prophet Malachi foretold his coming and Luke describes his birth. Historically, John's birth was the final preparation for the Incarnation.

The world today stands on the threshold of the arrival of the Prince of Peace. The dress rehearsal has now concluded and thus the main act will begin soon. Now is the time for us to make our final spiritual preparations for Christ's coming. May He find us alert and ready to welcome Him with open arms.

Prayer: Father, prepare my heart and spirit for the coming of Jesus Christ, Your Son.