Fourth Sunday of Advent
Micah 5:1-4a - Psalm 90:2-3,15-16,18-19 - Hebrews 10:3-10
Gospel: Luke 1: 38-45
What different measuring rods we often use to determine the value of objects. The expression, “one man’s meat is another man’s poison,” seems quite appropriate for today’s first reading. What one group quickly disregards, another group places in a position of honor.
In our first reading from the prophet, Micah, we are introduced to the town of Bethlehem – Ephrathah, which is described as “too small to be among the clans of Judah,” yet centuries later, we are all acquainted with “the little town of Bethlehem,” which fills an important role in the life of our Savior whose “greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth, he shall be peace” (Micah:5-4a).
The Responsorial Psalm reminds us that we must “turn to the Lord to see his face if we are to be saved.” Often, we need help to practice our faith since we are easily distracted. The Lord must “rouse his power to come save us.” We are like the fruit of the vine, which requires protection, yet with God’s help, we will be safe.
Our second reading reminds us that before Christ came, there was the yearly offering of bulls and goats, which did not take away the sins of the people, but when Jesus offered himself and “came to do God’s will,” he replaced the first ritual with the second, and through his sacrifice, we have been saved. How blessed are we! Jesus prayed, “I came to do your will, O God,” and we are to do the same.
Christmas is approaching, and it is a perfect time to reflect on the profound wisdom of God, who chose his Son, Jesus, to be born into the world as every human is—through a mother. In today’s Gospel, we are drawn to the stories of two remarkable women: Elizabeth, who, though advanced in age, is miraculously pregnant, and Mary, a young virgin preparing to give birth. Mary journeyed 80 to 100 miles to visit her older cousin. From their joyful encounter, we see that God’s works are wondrous!
Sr. Miriam Catherine Nevins, OP
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