Presence

Lord God, give me a quiet, gentle and receptive spirit as I spend these few moments in prayer with You today.

Freedom

I ask for the grace
to let go of my own concerns
and be open to what God is asking of me,
to let myself be guided and formed by my loving Creator.

Consciousness

At this moment, Lord, I turn my thoughts to You.
I will leave aside my chores and preoccupations.
I will take rest and refreshment in Your presence.

The Word of God

¹⁰And the disciples asked him, “Why, then, do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” ¹¹He replied, “Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things, ¹²but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.” ¹³Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist.

Inspiration

In Jewish tradition, it was thought that the Prophet Elijah would come back to earth before the coming of God’s anointed one. His task would be to prepare people for this momentous occasion. The disciples asked Jesus about what was likely to happen, and they did partially pick up that a foreteller in the shape of John the Baptist had been sent, but was given as little respect or credence as Elijah himself.

One who would prepare the way for the Saviour would be sent, and hints of the Lord’s arrival would be given. We find them dotted throughout the Christmas readings and liturgies.

Conversation

Words don’t always come easily to me, Lord.
Look into my heart
and see my longing for peace.
Watch over me, Lord.
I know that You are always by my side.

Conclusion

Filled with the loving presence of God,
I ask Him to bless me and guide my steps
as I go to do His work in my daily life.

Amen