Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Luke 1:5-7, 24-25, 39-45, 57-66

In our Advent preparations today, John the Baptizer’s motherElizabeth adds her testimony to the power of hoping in the Lord’spromises, holding before us the joy of the coming of Jesus as the lightwho gives to all who receive Him and believe in His name the right tobecome children of God. Because of our Lord’s continual supply ofgrace by His Word and Sacraments, we are enabled with Him to “greatlyrejoice in the LORD”; for by His Spirit of righteousness we lead lives ofholiness of faith. This holiness continually rejoices in the Lord, prays, andgive thanks in all circumstances. With Elizabeth and Zechariah, werejoice, always prepared by faith to welcome and worship our Lord andSavior, who comes to us daily with healing and deliverance.