Sunday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Reflection

The last week of Advent's readings do a great job of summing everything up. The first reading emphasizes that a Messiah is coming to bring salvation. The second reading announces Jesus' presence to the community. In the Gospel reading for this week, Mary sets out and travels to her cousin Elizabeth. It can relate to many of our own journeys, as we travel to be with family for Christmas on Tuesday.

It is the Gospel that says the most. In the Gospel, God is reminding us that those who believe what was spoken to us by the Lord would be fulfilled. This reminder is necessary during Advent. Remembering the real meaning of Christmas can be a challenge, for life gets crazy around Christmas: there are Christmas parties to attend, many presents to buy, and it is easy to forget why you are doing it all. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus, and it is easy to lose that in the shuffle of the hectic Christmas season. Instead, it is a time to focus on what is important: family, friends, and God.

Emily Clegg '16

Prayer

Father, this week, as we celebrate Christmas, be with us to remind us of Your love. Bless those who are traveling for the holidays: may their journeys be completed safely. May all remember what is truly important this Christmas.  Amen.
Scripture

First Reading: Micah 5:1-4a
Psalm: 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:5-10
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website

Christmas.  Amen.