Tuesday, December 23

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Today's Readings:

• Malachi 3.1-4, 23-24
• Psalm 25.4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14
• Luke 1.57-66

Today's Reflection:

It's one of those contradictions that can drive you crazy. "The friendship of the Lord is with those who fear him" says the psalm.

Is the problem with the translation  of the word 'fear'? When we tremble at the idea of God, is it because we're afraid of his punishment? Or are we in awe of him in his glory?

I found an interesting article on the Hebrew word 'yirah' which has been translated into the English 'fear'.  It seems that there are three levels of yirah: dread, anxiety, and a profound reverence.

If you're interested in knowing more, you can click on: http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Scripture/Parashah/Summaries/Eikev/Yirah/yirah.html