Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent Mass in the Morning

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law:
come to save us, Lord our God!

 Lectionary: 200

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High,
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
to give his people knowledge of salvation
by the forgiveness of their sins.
In the tender compassion of our God
the dawn from on high shall break upon us...

Mary, in one medieval chant, is called "the dawn," while Christ is "the perfect day." With that song ringing in our ears and hearts, perhaps we should recognize John the Baptist as the cock that wakes us at dawn and directs our attention to the rising sun. 

The rooster crow might not be as delightful to hear as Mary's song; and many despise his raucous roar. But we're nonetheless grateful that he stirs us out of our slumber. And especially for rousing us from the sleep of sin and death to the waking life of grace, freedom, courage, and generosity. 

This rooster gives God's people "knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins," for there can be no freedom in sin. Despite its attractive allure, its premises are as dependable as a crumbling foundation; and its promises, as empty as broken cisterns. 

We looked for other pathways to freedom; and, when offered the narrow way of penance, hoped it wasn't necessary. It appeared dark, forbidding, and downright scary. Even the bravest of warriors caviled at its demands. How could they enter eternal life without their weapons? 

But God the Father insisted and God the Son took our empty hands, even as the Spirit said, "This is the way."

No longer will your Teacher hide himself,

but with your own eyes you shall see your Teacher,

And your ears shall hear a word behind you:

“This is the way; walk in it,”

when you would turn to the right or the left. (Is 30:20-21)

Childbearing, I suppose, is not unlike penance. Both can be intimidating and both bring new life. We thank God for the narrow gate of Christmas as we wrap our faith in swaddling clothes and worship him.