“Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.”
Psalm 80
Readings
Book of the Prophet Micah 5:1-4a
Letter to the Hebrews 10:5-10
Gospel according to Luke 1:39-45
Reflection
by Sister Dorothy Jean Beyer, OSB
Christmas is drawing very nigh. Just 6 days away!
Are we ready for the coming of the Lord? Are we spiritually attuned to the birth of Christ in our hearts and in our souls?
The responsorial psalm response for today’s Eucharist: “Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved” is a perfect prayer for these last days of Advent. It is a lovely prayer that can be prayed all year long, but as we focus on the immediate preparations for Christmas, it is most appropriate to pray it now. This prayer will open us to Christ and His coming at Christmas and every day.
One way to grow in our spiritual life is to pause during the day and become aware of God’s presence. We can use the refrain of today’s Responsorial Psalm throughout our day. “Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.” Choose the times that work best, whether it is in the morning as we arise, or at breakfast, or lunch, or dinner, or when we go to bed or anytime in between. Find your own rhythm in pausing and praying. Seek the Face of Jesus in your everyday moments and events.
Make these last days of Advent count with an eagerness for Christ that know no bounds. Follow the example of Mary and Elizabeth, who believed that what God promised them would be fulfilled. And the promises came about in amazing, grace-filled ways.
Come, Lord Jesus, come! Let us see Your Face and we shall be saved!
From the Rule of St. Benedict
“Listen carefully, my son/my daughter, to the master’s instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart. This is advice from a parent who loves you; welcome it, and faithfully put it into practice.” Prologue v. 1
Gospel Acclamation
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38