First Reading: Zephaniah 3:14–20
Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
Gospel: Luke 7:18–28 (29–35)
Today’s Old Testament Reading, Zeph 3:14–20, evokes the theme of Advent joy. The prophet calls Israel to rejoice and exult with all her heart because her King is in their midst to save them. The advent of the King of Israel, the judge of the nations, will be a day of salvation and restoration for those whom he will gather in among his people. In Jesus, the Lord is restoring the fortunes of His people (Zeph 3:20). The advent of Christ is good news for those who are not offended by him.