"it's god, for you"
"The Lord of hosts has this to say." —2 Samuel 7:8
The Lord wants to talk to us about His coming this Christmas. He will talk to us through His word and through prophets like Nathan, Zechariah, John the Baptizer, and Mary. But will we be able to hear the Lord, even if He whispers to us? (see 1 Kgs 19:12)
Prior to receiving Nathan's prophecy that the Davidic dynasty would last forever, David focused His attention on building a house for the Lord (2 Sm 7:2). If we seek first God's kingdom (see Mt 6:33) and devote our lives to building His house, the Church (see Mt 16:18), we, like David, will prepare the way for a prophetic revelation from the Lord.
Zechariah was unable to hear for nine months (see Lk 1:62). He opened his ears to God's prophetic word by repenting of not believing the Archangel Gabriel's revelation concerning the miraculous birth of his son. Zechariah expressed his repentance by obeying the Archangel's command to name the baby "John" (Lk 1:63). We likewise must repent and obey to open our ears to God's word.
Jesus wants to pierce the "silent night" of Christmas by announcing to you words of spirit and life (see Jn 6:63). Open your ears by seeking first His kingdom, repenting of sins, and obeying His will. Get ready; God is about to give you a call.
Prayer: Father, Christmas morning and every morning open my ears that I may hear You (see Is 50:4).
Promise: "Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel because He has visited and ransomed His people." —Lk 1:68
Praise: Praise Jesus, the King of kings Who comes forth from the Father.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our leaflet Seek First The Kingdom.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 28, 2010
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