Homily – 18 December “O Adonai — The Lord Who Saves”

As of yesterday, the Church changes her tone.
The great O Antiphons begin.

Each evening, the Church calls out to Christ by name,
naming who He is
and what He comes to do.

Today we pray: O Adonai — O Lord.
The Lord who spoke to Moses from the burning bush.
The Lord who gave the Law.
The Lord who promised salvation.

And today’s readings show us how that Lord keeps His promise.

Jeremiah speaks to a broken people.
Bad shepherds have failed them.
Kings have disappointed them.
Justice has collapsed.

And God responds with a promise:

“I will raise up for David a righteous Branch.”

Not another failed ruler.
Not another temporary solution.

A King who will reign wisely,
who will do what is just and right,
and who will bring safety to God’s people.

Then comes the name:

“The Lord our righteousness.”

That is crucial.

Salvation will not come from better organisation,
stronger laws,
or improved effort.

It will come because the Lord Himself becomes our righteousness.

That is Advent in one line.

Matthew then shows us how this promise is fulfilled.

Not with spectacle.
Not with power.

But through Joseph’s obedience.

Joseph faces confusion and risk.
His plans collapse.
His reputation is at stake.

And God speaks — not loudly, but clearly:

“Do not be afraid.”

That is always where salvation begins.

The angel tells Joseph to name the child Jesus —
“because He will save His people from their sins.”

That is not decoration.
It is the mission.

Jesus does not come primarily to inspire,
or to comfort,
or to improve society.

He comes to save souls.

This is where the O Antiphon matters.

O Adonai reminds us that the child in Mary’s womb
is the same Lord who spoke from Sinai.

The Lawgiver has entered the Law.
The Judge has accepted judgement.
The Lord has come close.

And yet, He does not force salvation.
He invites obedience.

Joseph says yes.
Quietly.
Immediately.
Completely.

And salvation moves forward.

As Christmas approaches,
the Church is very clear.

God has done everything necessary to save us.
But He still asks for our consent.

Like Joseph, we are not asked to understand everything.
We are asked to trust and obey.

To welcome Christ not only into the world,
but into our lives.

The O Antiphons are the Church’s final cry of Advent:
Come, Lord Jesus.

Not as an idea.
Not as decoration.
But as Lord and Saviour.

Today the Church calls out:

O Adonai — O Lord.

Come and rule us.
Come and save us.
Come and be our righteousness.

And like Joseph,
may we rise from our confusion,
do what the Lord commands,
and make room for the Saviour who comes.