Christmas Eve

December 24

The winter solstice this year occurred on December 21 at 4:02 AM, Central Time. Then the days begin to get longer. On December 24 the Church celebrates liturgically the coming of the light, with the movement from the last Advent Mass in the morning to the evening Christmas Vigil Mass, and Mass at Night. The Gospel for the morning Mass of Christmas Eve is the Canticle of Zechariah.

Toward the end of that passage we hear in Luke 1:78-79:

…because of the tender mercy of our God by which the daybreak from on high will visit us to shine on those who sit in darkness and death’s shadow, to guide our feet into the path of peace.

Many of us on this day are busy with everything, and don’t have time to ponder the tender mercy of God. In this year of a pandemic, and uncertainty, our hearts can even be more distracted and fearful than normal. Our Lord’s words to Martha in Luke 10:41 applies to many of us this day:

…you are anxious and worried about many things.

I encourage you to take some time today in silence. To take time away from planning and worrying, and simply sit with the one who wants to shine on you, and guide your feet into the way of peace.