Wednesday, December 22, 2010

December 22nd - O King of Nations

Today's O Antiphon gives two titles for Jesus. First he is called the "king of all the nations," then he is called Jesus our "keystone." The keystone is the stone in the middle of an arch. It supports the other stones so that the arch does not fall down. In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus is also called a cornerstone. The cornerstone of a building is perfectly straight so that the walls built on it can be strong and true. Listen to the words of the prophet Isaiah (28:16-17):


                 The Lord says this:
                 "I'm laying a firm foundation 
                 for the city of Zion.
                 It's a valuable cornerstone 
                 proven to be trustworthy;
                 no one who trusts it will ever be disappointed.
                 Justice and fairness will be the measuring lines
                 that help me build."



O come, Desire of nations, bind
In one the hearts of humankind;
Come bid our sad divisions cease,
And be for us the King of Peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.

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