The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, December 20, 2005

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 7:10-14
Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 and 23
Luke 1:26-38

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

For me the very best part of the days leading up to Christmas are the “O Antiphons.” Beginning on the 17th of December through December 23rd, each Alleluia Verse of the Gospel which is also the antiphon used for the Canticle of Mary in the Liturgy of the Hours begins with the word which is simply a great big “O”.

That little word which makes our mouths get all round like we were again little expectant children says a lot about these special days. It reminds us that they are days of joyful anticipation like none other. The Promise is about to be fulfilled.

If you really want to feel the joy of Christmas, print out the "O Antiphons" below. "Unwrap them," so to speak, each day like the gift they are: the announcement of the Birth of our Savior!

December 17th - “O Wisdom holy Word of God, you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care. Come and show your people the way to salvation.”

December 18th - “O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel, who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush, who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain, come, stretch out your mighty hand to set us free.”

December 19th - “O Flower of Jesse's stem, you have been raised as a sign for all peoples; kings are silent in your presence; the nations bow down in worship before you. Come, let nothing keep you from coming to our aid.”

December 20th - “O Key of David, O royal power of Israel controlling at your will the gate of heaven: come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and lead your captive people into freedom.”

December 21st - “O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.”

December 22nd - “O King of all the nations, the only joy of every human heart; O Keystone of the mighty arch of man, come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust.”

December 23rd - “O Emmanuel, king and lawgiver, desire of the nations, Savior of all people, come and set us free, Lord our God.”

- Donna Raye Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hotmail dot com)

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