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Fourth Sunday of Advent

Readings of the Day 
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This has been a difficult year for most. But between the trauma of
racial injustice and the horrors of COVID-19, it has been a truly
tragic period for our brothers and sisters of color.  We are all
in desperate need of "Good News." Today's gospel
provides some as Luke tells of the Angel Gabriel appearing to a
Galilean teenager to announce that she is to be the Mother of God.

It would be challenging for any young woman, betrothed to marry, to
learn that she is pregnant. The revelation that this happened through
the Holy Spirit was surely reassuring to Mary. As she had "found
favor with God," Gabriel told her: "Do not be
afraid." Mary's response suggests that she is already
following that good counsel. She replies resolutely, "May it be
done to me according to your word."  

Just when we need inspiration - a light to shine through our dark
world - Mary comes forward to show us the way. She is to "bear a
son and shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son
of the Most High."  If we can simply summon the faith and
courage that Mary has, we will see past the violence, corruption,
racism and partisanship that is distracting us, and plaguing our
society. 

We know that a special time is near at hand, and we must ready
ourselves. An immense and joyous gift is about to be bestowed upon us.
Yet, we are living through a period where celebrations are discouraged
and large gatherings prohibited. What might we do?

There are a number of ways we might express our gratitude for this
awesome present. We can begin by recognizing that the gifts we receive
are meant to be shared with all of our brothers and sisters. We can
proclaim the critical need to respect the dignity of life for all in
our human family and ensure they are treated fairly. We can shout out
for the need for the care for God's gift of Creation. Finally,
we might pray that we be Instruments of God's Peace.

We can be certain that these responses are ones that Jesus, the Prince
of Peace will truly welcome as a worthy Birth Day gift. Alleluia.

Stan Fitzgerald is engaged in parish social ministry at St. Francis of
Assisi Church, San Jose, CA. A founding member of a Dayworker Center,
he mentors the local Catholic Worker and Jesuit Volunteer Corps houses
and is part of an Ignatian Spirituality/Service group.




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