Sunday December 20, 2026
Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
- First Reading – 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8B-12, 14A, 16: God responds to David’s desire to build a temple, recounting His support and promising a lasting dynasty, establishing a peaceful kingdom and an everlasting throne for David’s lineage.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: I will forever sing of the Lord’s promises and steadfast kindness, as He has pledged an enduring covenant with David, ensuring his lineage and throne for all generations.
- Second Reading – Romans 16:25-27: Glory to God, who strengthens us through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, revealing long-hidden mysteries, now shared with all nations to foster obedience of faith.
- Gospel – Luke 1:26-38: The angel Gabriel, sent by God, greeted Mary in Nazareth, proclaiming she would conceive Jesus, the Son of the Most High. Troubled, Mary wondered how, being a virgin. Gabriel explained the Holy Spirit’s role and mentioned Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy, affirming God’s power. Mary humbly accepted, declaring herself the Lord’s servant.
But Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?’ And the angel said to her in reply, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.
Luke 1:34-35
Themes for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B speak of the original Ark of the Covenant and of the Annunciation of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, the new Ark of the Covenant. In the first reading, David wants to build a home for the Ark of the Covenant, and instead God promises to establish the house of David forever. The psalm reiterates God’s promises to David. The second reading praises God. And in the gospel, Gabriel the Archangel appears to the Blessed Virgin Mary and brings her the news that she has been chosen to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ
- The Incarnation of Christ: Gabriel’s announcement of Jesus’ birth to Mary introduces the central Christian theme of the Incarnation. This event signifies God becoming human in Jesus Christ, a foundational truth of Christian belief.
- Favor and Choice by God: Mary is described as “highly favored” by the Lord, highlighting the theme of divine selection and grace. This emphasizes that God chooses individuals for specific purposes according to His divine plan.
- Mary’s Faith and Obedience: Mary’s response, “Let it be to me according to your word,” exemplifies faith and obedience to God’s will. This theme underscores the virtue of trusting and submitting to God’s plan, even when it is unexpected or challenging.
- The Role of the Holy Spirit: The angel’s explanation that the Holy Spirit will come upon Mary and the power of the Most High will overshadow her highlights the Holy Spirit’s role in the Incarnation. This theme reflects the work of the Holy Spirit in the mystery of Christ’s conception and in believers’ lives.
- The Virgin Birth: The concept of Mary conceiving as a virgin is a significant theme, representing a miraculous event in Christian theology. It signifies God’s power and the beginning of a new creation in Christ.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B.
Resources for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Sunday December 20, 2026
Fiat – A Lesson Plan on Mary’s Let It Be Done
Yes No Game (Fun Youth Group Game)
Walking with Mary: A Biblical Journey from Nazareth to the Cross
Fiat – A Lesson Plan on Mary’s Let It Be Done
This lesson plan for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B emphasizes Mary’s courageous ‘yes’ to God’s plan, despite uncertainties and risks. Her fiat, a profound act of faith and trust, encapsulates the Advent spirit of hopeful waiting and obedience to God’s will. Mary’s example in the Annunciation encourages us to embrace God’s plan with faith, mirroring the anticipatory and trusting nature of Advent. Her journey, therefore, becomes a powerful focus for reflection in this liturgical season.
Pray the O Antiphons
The O Antiphons are a reflection on Christ’s titles in the final Advent days, mirroring the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, readings’ focus on anticipation and fulfillment. The antiphons, with titles like “O Wisdom” and “O Emmanuel,” echo the themes in Luke 1:26-38, where Mary’s acceptance of her role in Christ’s incarnation is central. This tradition enriches the Advent experience, aligning with the readings’ message of awaiting the Messiah, and invites deeper contemplation on Christ’s multifaceted role, as foretold in the Scriptures and fulfilled in the Gospel.
Yes No Game
The “Yes No Game” from Young Catholics is a youth group activity that can be connected to the theme of saying “Yes” to God, reminiscent of Mary’s Fiat at the Annunciation. This ties in with the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, particularly the Gospel reading from Luke 1:26-38, where Mary’s assent to God’s plan is a central theme. This game can serve as a practical and engaging way to reflect on the importance of openness and trust in God’s will, as exemplified by Mary, which is a key message of the Advent season.
Walking with Mary: A Biblical Journey from Nazareth to the Cross
In this resource from Edward Sri, the focus is on Mary’s journey of faith, highlighting her roles and experiences as described in the Bible. This theme resonates deeply with the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, especially the Gospel reading from Luke 1:26-38. Here, we see Mary’s profound trust and obedience to God’s will at the Annunciation, embodying the essence of Advent’s anticipatory and faithful waiting. Mary’s journey, marked by uncertainty yet unwavering faith, mirrors the Advent season’s themes of hopeful expectation and preparation for the Lord’s coming. Sri’s exploration of Mary’s faith journey reminds us to emulate Mary’s openness and trust in God’s plan, crucial for the Advent season. (Sponsored)
Resources for Paul’s Letter to the Romans
Paul’s Letter to the Romans is significant in exploring themes like faith, righteousness, and salvation, emphasizing salvation through faith in Jesus Christ rather than law adherence. This resonates with the Second Reading of the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, from Romans 16:25-27, underscoring the mystery of Christ now revealed and obedience of faith. Paul’s insights on the role of faith and grace, and the call to live out this faith through love and obedience, align with the advent themes of anticipation and preparation for Christ’s coming, as well as the call for faithful response to God’s revelation.
The Gospel of Luke
The Gospel of Luke, known as the “Gospel of Mercy,” emphasizes Jesus’ compassion, particularly towards the marginalized. On the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, the Gospel reading is Luke 1:26-38, where Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s plan is central. Luke’s portrayal of Mary reflects the Gospel’s focus on inclusivity and divine mercy, resonating with Advent’s themes of anticipation and God’s love extending to all, regardless of status.
Advent Ideas for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Go See a Christmas Light Display
Visiting Christmas light displays can be a meaningful family activity for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B. These lights symbolize anticipation and joy. The illuminating presence of these lights signify hope and the coming of Jesus, the “light of the world”. As families gather to witness these lights, they are reminded of the approaching joy of Christ’s birth, echoing the Advent message of awaiting the light that dispels darkness.
Sing Some Christmas Carols
The tradition of singing Christmas carols, as explored on Young Catholics, is a meaningful way to prepare for Christmas on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B. Engaging in caroling, whether in organized groups or family gatherings, focuses on the anticipation of Christ’s birth. The practice of singing carols, celebrating the coming of the Christ child, echoes the sense of joyful expectation and preparation inherent in Advent, inviting believers to reflect on the significance of Christ’s coming and the transformative power of His presence.
Why Linus Drops His Blanket in A Charlie Brown Christmas
In “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” a poignant moment occurs when Linus drops his blanket during his speech about the true meaning of Christmas, precisely as he says, “fear not”. This action is significant as his blanket symbolizes security and comfort. This scene can be related to the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, especially the Gospel reading from Luke 1:26-38, where Mary, despite potential fears and uncertainties, trusts God’s plan. Like Linus letting go of his blanket, Mary’s acceptance of the angel Gabriel’s message represents a letting go of fear and a move towards faith and trust in God’s promise.
More Advent Ideas
Advent is a time to emphasize spiritual readiness, increase prayer, and participate acts of charity to deepen our relationship with God and embody Christ’s spirit. Get more ideas for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B. The Advent season invites believers to prepare their hearts for Jesus, mirroring Mary’s preparation for the birth of Christ.
Homilies and Reflections for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Sunday December 20, 2026
God’s Humble Pursuit of Humanity (Jeff Cavins)
Building a House (Bishop Robert Barron)
God’s Humble Pursuit of Humanity
Jeff Cavins reflects on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, emphasizing the profound humility and love in God’s incarnation. He contrasts Christian faith with other mythologies, highlighting God’s desire to be with humanity, not to exploit but to save and love. Cavins stresses that God, in his self-sufficiency, chooses to want us, inviting us into a covenant relationship. He cites the Catechism’s first paragraph, underscoring God’s pursuit of humanity and his call to unity through the Church. The birth of Jesus symbolizes salvation, God’s pursuit of us, and his desire to adopt us as his children. Christmas, for Cavins, transcends traditional festivities, focusing instead on divine adoption and being overwhelmed by God’s love.
Building a House
In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Bishop Robert Barron focuses on the mystery of God’s providence. He highlights how, amidst seeming chaos and uncertainty, the Bible encourages patience and trust in God’s subtle and long-term plans. King David plans to build a house for God, but God promises instead to establish a lasting house (dynasty) for David. This promise, seemingly broken with the fall of David’s line, is fulfilled unexpectedly in the Gospel of Luke, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary, betrothed to a descendant of David, that her son will inherit David’s throne eternally. God’s promises are fulfilled in surprising ways and urges trust in God’s plan.
The Mystery Kept Secret
Scott Hahn’s reflection on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B delves into the revelation of the long-hidden mystery of God’s plan, announced to Mary in the Gospel. He connects Mary’s annunciation with ancient prophecies and biblical figures, emphasizing her role in fulfilling God’s promises. Hahn highlights Mary as the prophesied virgin from David’s house, the “daughter Jerusalem,” and the mother of the Son of “the Most High.” The birth of Jesus fulfills the covenant with David, linking to Melchizedek and Abraham’s time. Hahn stresses that Jesus’ eternal kingdom will unite all nations in faith, urging us, like Mary, to humbly obey and live according to God’s plan.
Adam, David, and Jesus
In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Bishop Robert Barron presents a biblical narrative centered around the theme of kingship, examining the roles of Adam, David, and Jesus. He explains how Adam, given a kingly mission of stewardship and love, failed, leading to a world marred by sin. David, meant to restore kingship, also failed in his reign. The narrative culminates with Jesus, the new Adam and David, who perfectly fulfills the kingly mission. Jesus’ reign, unlike his predecessors, restores creation and establishes a kingdom of love and justice, rivaling all earthly powers. This theme underscores the church’s role in continuing Jesus’ mission of bringing God’s reign of love to the world.
More Thoughts for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Listening and Trusting in God’s Plan
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, invite us to a deeper understanding of God’s plan and our role in it. In the first reading from 2 Samuel, we witness King David’s desire to build a house for God, reflecting his vision of a worldly kingdom. However, God reveals a different plan through the prophet Nathan, one that isn’t confined to physical structures or earthly realms but focuses on establishing His eternal Kingdom. This story serves as a poignant reminder that our human aspirations and understandings often differ significantly from God’s divine intentions. Like Nathan, we are called to listen attentively to God, even when His messages challenge our expectations or desires.
In the Gospel of Luke for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, we encounter Mary, a young woman whose response to God’s call exemplifies total openness and trust. Amidst the oppression and suffering of her people, Mary’s heart must have echoed the cry of “Adanah Adonai!” – a longing for divine intervention. When presented with the angel’s message, unlike many who would seek to rationalize or dismiss such a daunting revelation, Mary embraces it with a profound “Fiat!” Her willingness to become an instrument of God’s plan, despite the uncertainties and potential hardships, is a testament to her extraordinary faith.
As we journey through Advent, Mary’s example beckons us to listen for God’s voice in our daily lives, to trust in His timing, and to be ready to respond with our own “Let it be.” Just as she embraced her role in God’s salvific plan, we too are invited to trust that our prayers are heard and that, in God’s time, they will be answered. Let us then approach God with a heart willing to accept and participate in His divine plan, embodying the spirit of Advent in our willingness to listen, trust, and respond.
Mary, the New Ark
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B beautifully intertwine the imagery of the Ark of the Covenant with Mary’s role in the divine plan. In the first reading from 2 Samuel, we encounter King David’s intention to build a physical house for the Ark, symbolizing God’s presence among His people. However, God reveals a different plan to David through Nathan, signifying that His presence cannot be contained in a mere structure.
This revelation foreshadows the incarnation, where God chooses not a temple made with hands, but a living ark – Mary – to bear His presence into the world. Mary, as the new Ark of the Covenant, embodies the fulfillment of God’s promise to dwell among His people. Her role as Theotokos, the God-bearer, signifies a profound shift: God’s presence is no longer confined to the Holy of Holies but is now intimately accessible through Christ, born of Mary.
Mary’s acceptance of her role, as depicted in Luke’s Gospel, marks a pivotal moment in salvation history. Just as the original Ark was revered and held the tablets of the covenant, Mary carries within her the Word made flesh, the fulfillment of the law and the prophets. Her fiat – her yes to God – ushers in a new era where God dwells not just among us but within us, through Christ. For us, Mary as the new Ark represents not only the fulfillment of ancient prophecies but also a model of discipleship.
Her willingness to accept God’s plan, despite the uncertainties and challenges, calls us to be bearers of Christ in our own lives. As we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth, we are invited to reflect on how we, like Mary, can carry the presence of Christ into our world, living out the Gospel in our actions and being vessels of God’s grace and love in a world that yearns for His presence.
Embracing the Revelation
In the second reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, from Romans 16:25-27, St. Paul concludes his epistle with a doxology that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Advent season. Paul speaks of the revelation of the mystery kept secret for long ages, now disclosed through the prophetic writings and made known to all nations according to the command of the eternal God. This passage invites us to reflect on the profound mystery of Christ’s incarnation, a plan hidden for ages but revealed in the fullness of time.
Advent is a period of expectant waiting, not just for the celebration of Christ’s birth, but also for the acknowledgment of this revelation in our lives. Paul’s words encourage us to embrace this mystery with joy and awe, recognizing that the unfolding of God’s plan in Christ is a continuous process, reaching us and calling us to faith and obedience.
Furthermore, Paul’s emphasis on the obedience of faith for all nations reminds us of the universal scope of Christ’s incarnation. The revelation of this mystery is not just for a select few but for all humanity, inviting everyone into a relationship with God through Christ. This universal call challenges us to look beyond our immediate circles and recognize the inclusivity of God’s salvation plan.
As we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Christ, we are called to ponder how this revelation of God’s mystery impacts our understanding of faith, community, and our role in God’s universal plan of salvation. Advent, therefore, becomes a time to not only marvel at the mystery revealed in Christ but also to recommit ourselves to living out this faith, sharing the joy of this revelation with all, and participating actively in the realization of God’s kingdom on earth.
Reflection Questions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
- How do my own plans and visions for my life align with or differ from what I perceive to be God’s plan for me?
- In what ways can I practice discernment and openness to God’s guidance, especially when it diverges from my expectations or desires?
- How do I respond to unexpected or challenging calls from God in my life? Can I find parallels with Mary’s “Fiat” in my own experiences?
- In what ways can I cultivate a deeper trust in God’s plan, especially in times of uncertainty or hardship?
- What does it mean to me to have a heart willing to listen, trust, and respond to God’s call? How can I develop these qualities during Advent and beyond?
- How can I better embody the spirit of Advent in my daily life, both in my personal faith journey and in my interactions with others?
- In what ways does the imagery of Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant deepen my understanding of her role in salvation history?
- How can I, like Mary, become a bearer of Christ in my own life and environment?
- How does the revelation of the mystery of Christ’s incarnation, as described by St. Paul, impact my understanding of faith and my relationship with God?
- In what ways am I called to participate in the universal scope of Christ’s incarnation, reaching out to all nations and communities in faith and love?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Music Suggestions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
Sunday December 20, 2026
For the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, music could include the themes of divine promise, anticipation, and fulfillment. Focus on selections that echo the profound faith and obedience of Mary, and the historic promises made to David, highlighting the lineage leading to Jesus. Incorporate hymns and songs that embody the joy and hope of the approaching birth of Christ, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of this significant moment in the Advent season.
Here are some music suggestions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B. These are a mix of traditional hymns and contemporary songs for praise and worship:
- All the Poor and Powerless
- Behold the Lamb of God
- Blessed Be the God of Israel
- Come Holy Ghost
- Come Thou Long Expected Jesus
- Come to Us
- Creator of the Stars of Night
- Doxology
- For Ever I Will Sing the Goodness of the Lord
- Gabriel’s Message
- Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming
- Luke 1: My Soul Rejoices
- My Soul Rejoices
- O Come, Divine Messiah
- O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
- People Look East
- Prepare the Way
- Psalm 89
- Ready the Way
- Sing of Mary, Pure and Lowly
- Soon and Very Soon
- The Angel Gabriel
- Trading My Sorrows
- Your Promises
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Frequently Asked Questions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B
What date is the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
The next date is Sunday December 20, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Advent Year A
4th Sunday of Advent Year C
What are the Mass readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
The Mass readings for Sunday December 20, 2026 are:
First Reading – 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8B-12, 14A, 16: God’s Promise to David
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: Eternal Covenant with David
Second Reading – Romans 16:25-27: Glory to God in Christ
Gospel – Luke 1:26-38: Annunciation to Mary
What is the significance of God’s response to David in the first reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
God’s promise to David in 2 Samuel 7 about establishing a lasting dynasty connects to Advent as it sets the stage for Jesus’ birth. Jesus, a descendant of David, fulfills this promise, highlighting the Advent theme of anticipation for the fulfillment of God’s promises.
What is the connection between David’s dynasty and Jesus’ birth?
The promise of a lasting dynasty to David, as mentioned in the first reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, is a precursor to the birth of Jesus. Jesus, born of the House of David, embodies the fulfillment of this divine promise, connecting Old Testament prophecies to the New Testament.
What is the significance of the responsorial psalm for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
Psalm 89’s emphasis on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness to His covenant with David resonates with Advent themes. It reflects the enduring nature of God’s promises, culminating in the birth of Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of these promises.
What message does the second reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B offer?
Romans 16:25-27 glorifies God for revealing the mysteries through Jesus Christ. It’s pertinent to Advent as it celebrates the revelation of God’s plan for salvation, a mystery now manifested in Jesus and shared with all nations.
Can you suggest a theme for a reflection or homily based on these readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
A fitting theme for a homily or reflection could be the fulfillment of God’s promises. It could explore how the readings collectively point to God’s faithful fulfillment of His promises through the lineage of David, culminating in the birth of Jesus.
How can the gospel for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B inspire reflection?
The Annunciation in Luke 1:26-38 encourages reflection on Mary’s faith and her acceptance of God’s plan. It invites us to ponder our own openness to God’s will and how we can emulate Mary’s trust and humility in our Advent journey.
What practical lesson can be drawn from these readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
These readings inspire trust in God’s faithfulness and encourage embracing His will with humility. Practically, this means nurturing faith, patience, and willingness to respond to God’s call in our lives, drawing inspiration from Mary’s example in the Gospel.
How does the theme of obedience emerge in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B readings?
Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s plan in the Gospel reading highlights the theme of obedience. This parallels the obedience of faith mentioned in Romans, emphasizing the importance of trusting and following God’s will.
How does the concept of revelation play a role in the readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
The revelation theme is prominent in Romans, where Paul speaks of the revelation of the Gospel. The Annunciation in the Gospel of Luke also serves as a revelation, not only to Mary but to the world, of the coming of the Savior.
What does the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B teach us about faith and trust?
Mary’s response to the angel in Luke’s Gospel exemplifies faith and trust in God’s plan. This teaches us the value of embracing God’s will with faith, even when it challenges our understanding or expectations.
How do the readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B connect the Old and New Testaments?
The promise to David in 2 Samuel and its reflection in Psalm 89 connect to the New Testament through the fulfillment of these promises in Jesus, as narrated in Luke. This linkage demonstrates the continuity and fulfillment of God’s salvific plan across both Testaments.
What is the overarching theme of these readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?
The central theme is the fulfillment of God’s promises through the lineage of David, culminating in the birth of Jesus. It reflects on God’s faithfulness and the preparation for the coming of the Messiah.
How do the readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B reflect the joy and hope of Advent?
The readings collectively radiate joy and hope, hallmarks of Advent. The anticipation of Jesus’ birth and the realization of God’s promises in the readings bring a sense of joyous expectation characteristic of this season.
What can we learn from the characters in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B readings?
From David’s desire to honor God, to Mary’s humble acceptance, we learn the virtues of reverence, humility, and readiness to serve God. These figures serve as models for how we should approach the coming of Christ in our hearts and lives.
As we draw closer to the culmination of our Advent journey, the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B brings us profound insights and a sense of spiritual anticipation. Through the tapestry of readings, from the promise made to David in 2 Samuel to Mary’s humble acceptance in Luke’s Gospel, we are invited to witness the unfolding of God’s grand narrative of salvation. This Sunday serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnection between God’s promises and their fulfillment.
The essence of Advent, embodied in these readings, is not just about waiting but about active participation in God’s plan. Like Mary, we are called to open our hearts and say ‘yes’ to whatever God asks of us. The themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention remind us that we are part of a larger story, one that began with a promise to David and found its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus.
As we reflect on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, let us carry these themes into our lives. Let the anticipation of Christ’s birth fill us with joy and hope. Let us be inspired by Mary’s example to live with faith and trust in God’s plan. As Advent draws to a close, we prepare not just our homes but our hearts for the coming of Christ, embracing the promise of salvation and the joy of the season.
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