Gospel Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year C.
By The Benedictine Community
Lord, make us turn to you,
let us see your face and we shall be saved. (Psalm 79)
Mary's birth and free consent to cooperate with the Divine Plan announced by the Archangel Gabriel is the culmination of the Old Testament prophecies: 'The Lord is therefore going to abandon them (Israel) till the time when she who is to give birth gives birth.'
Following her encounter with the Messenger sent by God, Mary sets out 'as quickly as she could,' to visit her cousin Elizabeth.
So many years of prayer, yearnings, longing and faith are realised when Mary greets Elizabeth who receives the Holy Spirit:....the child in my womb leapt for joy.'
Elizabeth speaks on behalf of all humanity when she says: 'Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?
Then with the embrace of the two pregnant women , the Church is born.
Have a happy and holy Christmas.