Fourth Sunday of Advent

Readings of the Day 

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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