Profoundly humble, St. John speaks very little of himself, but takes pleasure in dwelling at length upon the greatness of our Lord. "But there has stood One in the midst of you Whom you know not. The same is he that shall come after me.
O my Divine Savior, how consoling and honorable for Thy holy precursor, to be the voice crying out to men to prepare the way of the Lord! Rejoicing with her whole heart, Holy Church, at Thy approaching advent, invites all her children to participate in her joy. With a tender love we will respond to her invitation, ever mindful that Thou art near to each one of us. Thou desires to be near us with Thy grace and Thy peace; but how many remain at a distance, because they know Thee not, or do they desire to know Thee. O Divine Savior, enlighten these blinded souls, draw them unto Thee by the sweet power of Thy grace. Compel the obdurate to enter into themselves and remove the obstacles that oppose Thy bountiful advent in their hearts. True to the admonition of the Apostle, we will hasten to meet Thee with prayers, fasting, and thanksgiving, to participate in Thy peace, which surpasses all comprehension.
May you all be kept safe, spirit, soul, and body, for the coming of the Lord.
