Readings: Luke 1:68-79; Malachi 3:13-18; Philippians 1:18b-2:6

In response to “what is this child going to be?,” John’s father, Zechariah, sings the Benedictus Dominus Deus, which ends:

And 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,
77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation
    through the forgiveness of their sins,
78 because of the tender mercy of our God,
    by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven
79 to shine on those living in darkness
    and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the path of peace.”   (Luke 1:76-79)

Talk about high expectations! Is that even fair to impose such onto a new- born child? Well, God seems to have high expectations for John – and for us. This can be a heavy burden but only if we believe we have to carry it by ourselves.

Am I not also called to prepare the way of the Lord?—to give people the knowledge of salvation? Do I know someone living in darkness (maybe moi)?

Is it time to let the sun shine in this Advent and allow our feet to be guided into the path of peace?

Or are my expectations too low? My God too small? 

My prayer is that I never underestimate God.

Offered by Bill Albritton, God’s beloved child.