It is 24th December 2016. The readings are from 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16; and the Gospel from Luke 1:67-79. In the first reading, we encounter King David who was embarrassed to hear that the Lord lives in a tent while he lives in an expensive palace made out of cedar wood. Hearing the prophecy from Nathan, the king attempted to build a temple because of pride and guilt. God expressed God’s desire to live in the people not just among the people. God wants to dwell in our very being. We are the temple and the sanctuary for the living God. God wants to be revered everywhere. God is looking for the inn where God’s only Son Jesus to have decent place to dwell with Mary and Joseph. God wishes to establish God’s throne in our existence through the promise made to David. “Your House and your sovereignty will always stand secure before me and your throne be established forever.” (2 Sam.7:16). The responsorial Psalm praises, “I will sing forever of your love, O Lord.” (Ps.88:2). The Gospel presents us with a hymn of praise for God, the Benedictus. Zechariah praises God for having offered hope to sinfully ailing humanity. “To give God’s people knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins; this by the tender mercy of our God who from on high will bring Sun to visit us, to give light to those who live in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet in the way of peace.” (Lk.1: 78, 79). The celebration of Christ’s birth has begun in us and around us. Let the joy and peace of Christmas bubble from within to everyone whom we encounter. May the peace of Christ be with you. Have a joyful celebration of Christmas.