Dear brothers and sisters in Christ! As we gather on this fourth Sunday of Advent, we approach the culmination of our waiting and preparation for the birth of our Lord and Saviour. The readings today invite us to reflect on the theme of hope—hope fulfilled in the humble yet profound announcement of the Angel Gabriel to Mary.
In the Gospel of Luke, we witness the moment when Mary, a young woman from Nazareth, receives the extraordinary news that she will bear the Son of God. Her response, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word,” exemplifies deep faith and total surrender to God’s will. Mary’s acceptance not only brings salvation into the world but also teaches us about the power of saying “yes” to God in our own lives.
When do we say “yes” to God? And when, perhaps, do we stay silent?
As we stand on the brink of Christmas, let us consider how we, too, can say “yes” to God’s call. In our busy lives, filled with distractions and noise, how can we make space for His presence? This Advent season gives us a precious opportunity to quiet our hearts, listen for His voice, and respond in faith.
Let us also remember that, like Mary, we might often feel unworthy or inadequate. Yet God chooses the humble and the lowly to fulfill His grand design. He invites us to be vessels of His peace and love in our families, communities, and beyond.
As we light the final candle on our Advent wreath, let it symbolise the light of Christ shining forth into our lives. May we carry this light into a world that so desperately needs hope and redemption.
In this final week of preparation, let us pray for the grace to embrace our calling and to joyfully await the birth of our Lord, carrying His light into our daily lives.
Amen.
The Lord be with you.
And with your spirit
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 1:39-45
Glory to you, O Lord.
Mary set out and went as quickly as she could to a town in the hill country of Judah.
She went into Zechariah’s house and greeted Elizabeth.
Now as soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb and
Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
She gave a loud cry and said,
‘Of all women you are the most blessed, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?
For the moment your greeting reached my ears, the child in my womb leapt for joy.’
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.