23 December – VII day of the novena of Christmas
O Emmánuel!
Reading: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24
As Advent reaches its final threshold with the invocation O Emmanuel, the prophecy of Malachi reminds us that the coming of the Lord is never sudden or careless, God always prepares. He sends a messenger ahead, not only to announce His arrival but to purify hearts, restore relationships, and turn us back toward one another. Advent reveals a God who desires readiness, not fear; transformation, not surprise. Emmanuel comes as the One who refines like fire and cleanses like soap, not to destroy, but to make space for true communion. This day invites us to examine how the Lord has been quietly preparing our lives, through events, people, and inner movements, so that His presence may be welcomed rather than resisted. To await Emmanuel is to allow God to prepare us from within, healing what is divided and aligning our hearts with His coming peace. Let’s reflect: Advent is the season of interior preparation, when God gently readies our hearts for Emmanuel, purifying, healing, and aligning us to welcome His abiding presence among us.
Don Giorgio