December 9 - Great Things

First Reading (Baruch 5:1-9)

Jerusalem, take off your robe of mourning and misery;
 put on the splendor of glory from God forever:
wrapped in the cloak of justice from God,
bear on your head the mitre
 that displays the glory of the eternal name.
 For God will show all the earth your splendor:
 you will be named by God forever
the peace of justice, the glory of God's worship.

Up, Jerusalem!  Stand upon the heights;
look to the east and see your children
gathered from the east and the west
at the word of the Holy One,
rejoicing that they are remembered by God.
 Led away on foot by their enemies they left you:
 but God will bring them back to you
borne aloft in glory as on royal thrones.
 For God has commanded
that every lofty mountain be made low,
and that the age-old depths and gorges
be filled to level ground,
that Israel may advance secure in the glory of God.
 The forests and every fragrant kind of tree
have overshadowed Israel at God's command;
for God is leading Israel in joy
by the light of his glory,
with his mercy and justice for company.

Response:  The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.


When the Lord brought back the captives of Zion,


we were like men dreaming.


Then our mouth was filled with laughter,


and our tongue with rejoicing.


Response:  The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.


Then they said among the nations,
 "The Lord has done great things for them.

"
The Lord has done great things for us;


we are glad indeed.


Response:  The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.


Restore our fortunes, O Lord,

like the torrents in the southern desert.

Those who sow in tears
shall reap rejoicing.

Response:  The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.


Although they go forth weeping,

carrying the seed to be sown,

They shall come back rejoicing,

carrying their sheaves.


 Response:  The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.


Reflection: Lord, You have done great things for me. You have brought me back when I failed. Keep me in your path to salvation during this Advent season as I prepare for Christmas.