COMMENTARY

Malachi 3:1-4 (C, L)
Yahweh promises to send his messenger to prepare the way for his coming. The messenger is the center of this pericope. Malachi means "my messenger." (v. 1) The book was written by an unknown prophet who considered himself the messenger to prepare the way for Yahweh's coming to the rebuilt temple after the return of the Exiles from Babylon. When Yahweh comes, he, like a refiner's fire, will cleanse the Levitical priesthood and their sacrifices. Christians interpret this passage as a promise of a messenger fulfilled by John the Baptizer to prepare the way for Christ. Baruch 5:1-9 (RC) The Lord promises Israel's remnant will return to their own land in triumph.

Philippians 1:3-11 (C, L), Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11 (RC)
Paul prays that his people will be pure an…