The Gospel is the hymn which Zechariah sang at the circumcision of his son, John [the Baptist], and which is said or sung as part of the Church's morning prayer every day. It is a great hymn of thanksgiving and praise for the saving work which is soon to take place in Jesus and is the fulfilment of promises made by God to His people down the centuries. Zechariah also speaks of his son as one who will go before the Lord "to prepare the way for him" and "to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins". He will prepare the way for the "rising Sun" who will "give light to those who live in darkness ...and guide our feet in the way of peace." What a wonderful calling was John's! What a wonderful privilege! And yet our calling as baptised disciples of Jesus is exactly the same. Our mission is to go ahead and prepare the way for Jesus to come into the lives of those who do not know Him. We, too, are to be messengers of peace in a world of violence and divisions. As Christmas approaches, let us be aware of just what the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, means for each one of us.