“What then will this child be? For the hand of the Lord was with him.” – Luke 1:66
In a village where tradition demanded every firstborn son bear the grandfather’s name, a couple chose differently. Relatives protested and old tensions flared, but the parents stood firm. When they signed the birth certificate with the chosen name, a long-standing family feud quietly dissolved, ushering in an unexpected
Today’s readings reveal a God who prepares hearts before He reveals His plans. Malachi speaks of the Lord who comes like a refining fire, purifying and readying His people (Malachi 3:2–3). In the Gospel, obedience unlocks blessing: when Zechariah declares, “John is his name” (Luke 1:63), his silence ends and praise flows freely. God’s purposes often confront tradition and expectation, yet they always carry mercy and restoration, turning hearts back toward one another (Malachi 4:6). Advent reminds us that God is already at work beneath the surface, shaping futures we cannot yet see. When we trust His word above familiar patterns, peace follows faith. As Christmas draws near, lift your head with hope. Be encouraged: the hand of the Lord is guiding your story with wisdom, purpose, and grace.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
Pause today in quiet reflection on the traditions or expectations in your life that God may be inviting you to release, journal how Zechariah and Elizabeth’s obedience brought breakthrough, meditate on Luke 1:66 and the assurance of God’s guiding hand, pray for courage to trust His unexpected plans, and share this encouraging message with someone facing family tensions or uncertainty.
Join Us in Prayer
Gracious Father, You prepare our hearts and guide our stories with Your mighty yet gentle hand, just as You did for Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John. As we draw near to Christmas, help us trust Your purifying work and obey Your voice even when it challenges tradition, bringing restoration, peace, and unity to our lives and relationships. Fill us with hope and praise as we await the coming of Your Son. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
The Scripture is adapted from the Catholic Daily Readings of the day.
- First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14
- Second Reading: (none)
- Alleluia: O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!
- Gospel: Luke 1:57-66
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