4th Sunday of Advent (C)

(Edited) Sunday Reflections (from) Liturgical Years 2011 (A), 2012 (B), and 2013 (C)

4th Sunday of Advent (C), December 23, 2012
Liturgical readings
Micah 5:1-4a
Psalm 80
Hebrews 10:5-10
Luke 1:39-45

"Blessed is she who trusted that the Lord's words to her would be fulfilled."

There are only a few passages in the New Testament which refer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In this Sunday's gospel, we find her visiting her cousin Elizabeth. Mary does not speak in the passage, except for a mention of her greeting. That greeting from Mary caused Elizabeth to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Great joy filled Elizabeth's heart that she was moved to praise Mary for trusting the Lord's words. One ought to note that Elizabeth's words of praise became part of every Catholic's prayer in the rosary. Both Elizabeth's and Mary's humility before God is rooted in that patient hope of a people awaiting their deliverance from God - which is now fulfilled in Mary's womb after 42 generations since the time of their ancestor Abraham.

Meditating on this mystery of the Visitation, one can seek to understand the meaning of the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth. We see how God's action can enter human history even in the most unexpected places. And involving members of Jewish society who were closest to God in prayer: a virgin from Nazareth (who knows no man) now conceives the Word of God in her immaculate womb; and an aged and married woman (known to be barren) now conceives a son in her old age (in a town of Judah not even named in the gospel). Two miraculous conceptions. Two miracles of life. These miracles of life will bring great tidings and joy to the world. And it all began with a humble trust in God's Word.

To trust in God and His will is what all are called to do daily. It may not be easy at first, since that trust will be tried several times in life. Mary is a good example for all in the exercise of faith and obedience to God's will. That is why next to Jesus, she is the most loved, and the one whom many go to in times of need. Just as the gospel presents her bringing the Good News of salvation and deliverance from sin to her cousin Elizabeth, devotion to Mary will also lead anyone to a greater praise of God's mercy and a greater love for Christ, our Redeemer and Prince of Peace.