“In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” (Luke 1:79)
As we conclude our reflection on the Canticle of Zechariah, the word “daybreak”, used in this context , is translated “branch”, which is an Old Testament title for Jesus. Another Old Testament reference is that of the “vine”, which is metaphorically speaking another name for God’s chosen people. We as God’s chosen people are connected to Jesus by our baptism. Jesus is the source of inner peace we seek. If we look elsewhere to find that inner peace, we are bound to fail.
“O Lord, God of hosts, restore us; if your face shine upon us, then we shall be saved” (Psalm 80:19-20)