Daily Catholic Lectio
Tue, 24 December ‘24
Advent Weekdays
2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8, 12-16. Psalm 89. Luke 1:67-79
Dwelling and dawn
We are at the threshold of the Christmas celebrations. God comes to dwell with us. He is our dawn that guides our steps.
1. God’s faithfulness to his promises
“Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.” (2 Sam 7:16)
In 2 Samuel, we hear God’s covenant with David, promising that his kingdom will endure forever. This prophecy points directly to Jesus, the descendant of David, who fulfils this promise. As we prepare for Christmas, we are invited to reflect on God’s unwavering faithfulness throughout salvation history. He keeps His promises, even when humanity falters.
Reflection: In our lives, do we trust in God’s faithfulness, especially during challenging times? Christmas reminds us that His promises bring hope and fulfilment.
2. A God who walks with us
“I have been with you wherever you went.” (2 Samuel 7:9). “I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever.” (Psalm 89:1)
The psalmist sings of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Zechariah, in the Gospel, echoes this by recognizing God’s fulfilment of His covenant through the birth of the Messiah. Christmas is the celebration of Emmanuel – God with us. He is not a distant God but one who chooses to dwell among His people in the person of Jesus Christ.
Reflection: Are we aware of God’s presence in our daily lives? As we approach Christmas, let us recognize His nearness and respond with gratitude and joy.
3. Called to be messengers of the light
“You, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High, for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him.”(Luke 1:76)
Zechariah’s prophetic canticle reminds us of John the Baptist’s mission to prepare the way for the Lord. Like John, we too are called to bear witness to Christ’s light in a world often overshadowed by darkness. Christmas is not just a celebration but a call to share the joy and hope of the Savior with others.
Reflection: How can we become messengers of Christ’s light? Through acts of love, forgiveness, and charity, we prepare the way for Him in our hearts and the hearts of others.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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