Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 22, 2024

Luke 1:39-45

And how does this happen to me that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant in her womb leapt for joy. Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit when she greeted Mary. This was a precious time for both Elizabeth and Mary since they were both with children. God has indeed worked his wonders on the world in which we live.

God, help us prepare our hearts to welcome you once again. Let us not get caught up in the hustle and bustle of this season. Help us slow down and enjoy the season so we can be ready to greet you once again. Thank you, Lord. 

Saturday of the Third Week of Advent, December 21,2024

Luke 1:39-45
St. Peter Canisius

And how does this happen to me, that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?

In today’s Gospel, we hear of Mary’s journey to visit Elizabeth in the house of Zechariah. Elizabeth is in her sixth month of carrying her child, and the child leapt for joy at hearing Mary’s voice. We are beginning the last days of our Advent journey before we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus.

Lord God, we come before you on this day you gave us on this Advent Journey. Help us to prepare our hearts to welcome our Lord once again in our lives. Be with us during these last days of our Advent Journey to be patient and not rush the season. Let us remember and prepare to celebrate when the Lord comes again.  

The fourth candle (purple) represents love. It symbolizes the boundless love of God, which we are called to share with one another.

Friday of the Third Week of Advent, December 20,2024

Luke 1:26-38

You will conceive in your womb and bear a son.

Angels are busy again, this time with Mary. Gabriel appears to Mary and announces that she is chosen from all women to conceive and bear a child who will be called Jesus. Mary’s yes begins her journey to become a mother of our God’s Son. 

Father, we thank you for Mary’s yes to carry your Son in her womb so we can have eternal life. Let us remember that you are the rock from whom our salvation comes.