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.

Lectionary Reference: 11

The readings above are for lectionary cycle B. For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Advent Year A
4th Sunday of Advent Year C

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B prepares us for the birth of Jesus. The readings focus on God’s promises, faith, and the mystery of Christ’s coming.

• God’s Faithfulness: God promises David an everlasting kingdom. This shows that God is faithful to His word, fulfilling His promises through Jesus.
• The Mystery of Salvation: Paul speaks of God’s plan, once hidden but now revealed through Christ. This mystery invites us to deepen our faith and trust in God’s purpose.
• Humility and Obedience: Mary’s response to Gabriel shows humility and obedience. She accepts God’s will, teaching us to trust and surrender to God’s plan.
• The Power of the Holy Spirit: Gabriel explains that the Holy Spirit will make Mary the Mother of Jesus. This reminds us that God’s power works in ways beyond human understanding.
• God’s Favor and Grace: Gabriel greets Mary as “full of grace,” showing that God chooses and blesses those who are open to His will. We are reminded that God’s grace is a gift to all who trust in Him.
• Joyful Expectation: Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan brings hope and joy as she prepares to welcome the Savior. This joyful expectation reflects the Advent spirit of waiting and hope.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B invites us to reflect on God’s promises and the mystery of Christ’s coming. Through faith, humility, and trust, we prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus, the fulfillment of God’s promises.

He Will Rule Forever

In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Bishop Robert Barron explains how Jesus fulfills God’s promise to David of an everlasting kingdom. He connects this to the prophecy in 2 Samuel, where God promises David that his lineage will reign forever. Despite the end of David’s earthly line, this promise is fulfilled in Jesus, the true King who rules eternally.

Bishop Barron highlights how the Gospel links Jesus to David through Joseph, of the house of David. He explains that Jesus is the new and definitive David, both King and Priest. As King, Jesus reigns from the cross, and as Priest, He offers the perfect sacrifice for sin. The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B invites us to see Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise, the eternal King who brings salvation to all.

God’s Humble Pursuit of Humanity

In his commentary for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Jeff Cavins reflects on the incredible mystery of God becoming human. He emphasizes that the most amazing part of Christmas is not just the virgin birth but that God chose to come down to earth to be with us. This act of humility shows how deeply God loves us and wants to be in a relationship with us. Cavins highlights that God did not come as a distant ruler but as Emmanuel, which means “God with us,” bringing salvation and inviting us into His family.

Cavins explains that Christmas celebrates God’s desire to adopt us as His children. This adoption is a sign of His love and the gift of eternal life. Through Jesus, we are invited into God’s family, becoming heirs to His blessed life. Cavins encourages us to see Christmas as more than just traditions and gifts but as a time to open our hearts to God’s love and to embrace our identity as His beloved children.

The Mystery Kept Secret

In his commentary for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Scott Hahn explains how the angel’s message to Mary fulfills the promises made throughout salvation history. He shows that Mary is the virgin foretold by Isaiah, chosen to bear the Son of the Most High. This child is the long-awaited heir to the throne of David, whose kingdom will last forever. Hahn connects this to God’s covenant with David and the prophecies about a ruler from the house of Jacob.

Hahn emphasizes that Jesus’ coming brings salvation to all nations, inviting everyone to the obedience of faith. He highlights Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s plan, which serves as a model for us. Just as Mary responded with trust and obedience, we are called to live according to God’s word. Hahn invites us to reflect on the greatness of God’s plan and to follow Mary’s example of faith and submission to God’s will.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B invites us to reflect on God’s promises and how we respond to His call. The readings guide us to listen with open hearts, trust in His plan, and embrace the mystery of Christ’s coming. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the importance of faith, obedience, and humility. These reflections encourage us to follow the examples of David and Mary, allowing God’s will to unfold in our lives.

Listening and Trusting in God’s Plan

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B invites us to listen and trust in God’s plan, even when it differs from our own expectations. In the first reading, King David wants to build a house for God, believing it to be the right way to honor Him. However, God reveals through Nathan the prophet that His plan is much greater. God promises David an everlasting kingdom, showing that His ways are higher than human understanding. This teaches us to listen to God and trust that His plan is always for our good.

Mary’s response in the Gospel further illustrates this trust. When the angel Gabriel announces that she will bear the Son of God, Mary listens and humbly accepts this incredible calling. Her question is not one of doubt but of curiosity about how God’s plan will unfold. Her openness and faith inspire us to trust God even when we don’t have all the answers.

Both David and Mary show us different ways of responding to God’s will. David learns to let go of his own plans and accept God’s promise, while Mary embraces her role with humility and faith. Their stories encourage us to listen carefully to God’s voice in our lives, especially when His plans challenge our own desires or expectations.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B calls us to prepare our hearts by being open to God’s will. Like Mary, we are invited to trust in God’s timing and purpose. By listening to God and trusting in His promises, we can find peace and hope, knowing that He is always with us.

Mary, the New Ark

On the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, we reflect on Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant. In the first reading, David wants to build a temple for the Ark, which symbolized God’s presence among His people. But God promises that His presence will come through David’s lineage. This promise is fulfilled when Mary becomes the living Ark, carrying Jesus, the Son of God, within her.

Just as the Ark of the Covenant held the tablets of the Law, Mary carries the Word made flesh. Her womb becomes the dwelling place of God, bridging heaven and earth. This shows that God’s presence is no longer confined to a building but is fully revealed in Jesus. Mary, as the new Ark, brings God’s presence to all people through her role as the Mother of Jesus.

Mary’s journey to visit Elizabeth mirrors David bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. Like David dancing before the Ark, John the Baptist leaps in Elizabeth’s womb at the sound of Mary’s greeting. This joyful moment shows that Mary carries the true presence of God. Her visit to Elizabeth is a powerful sign of God’s promise being fulfilled through Jesus.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B invites us to see Mary’s role in God’s plan of salvation. She is the vessel through which God’s promise to David is realized. By saying yes to God, Mary becomes the Mother of the Savior, bringing hope and joy to the world.

As we prepare for Christmas, Mary’s example calls us to carry Christ within us. We are invited to be living tabernacles, bringing God’s love and presence to others. Like Mary, we can share the joy of Christ’s coming with those around us.

Embracing the Revelation

In the second reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, Paul speaks of a mystery long hidden but now revealed through Jesus Christ. This mystery is God’s plan of salvation for all people. It reminds us that God’s ways are beyond human understanding, yet He chooses to reveal His plan through Jesus.

This revelation calls us to faith and obedience. Paul emphasizes that this message is meant for all nations, showing that God’s love and salvation are for everyone. This challenges us to look beyond ourselves and see how we are called to share this good news with others.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B encourages us to embrace the mystery of Christ’s coming. Advent is a time of waiting and expectation, but also a time of revelation. We are invited to reflect on how Jesus’ birth changed the world and how His presence continues to transform our lives.

Paul’s message reminds us that God’s plan is still unfolding. The mystery of Christ’s love is meant to be shared. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, we are called to be witnesses of this revelation, bringing hope and joy to a world longing for peace.

By embracing the revelation of Christ, we participate in God’s plan of salvation. We are invited to live out our faith with love and obedience, reflecting Christ’s light to others. The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B calls us to respond to this mystery with faith and gratitude, preparing our hearts to receive the gift of Jesus.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year B challenges us to listen, trust, and embrace God’s plan with faith and courage. Like Mary, we are called to say yes to God, even when we do not fully understand His ways. As we reflect on these readings, let us prepare our hearts to receive Christ with hope and joy. May we carry His love to others, sharing the good news of salvation.

Prayer

Lord, help us to listen to Your voice and trust in Your plan. Like Mary, may we humbly say yes to Your call. Give us the courage to follow Your will, even when the path is uncertain. Prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus with faith and hope. Amen.

• How can I better listen to God’s voice in my daily life?
• What is God asking me to trust Him with right now?
• How can I respond to God’s call with humility and faith?
• In what ways can I bring Christ’s presence to others?
• What does Mary’s example teach me about obedience and trust?
• How can I embrace the mystery of Christ’s coming with joy and hope?
• Where do I see God’s promises being fulfilled in my life?
• How can I share the good news of Jesus with those around me?
• What fears or doubts do I need to surrender to God?
• How can I prepare my heart to receive Christ more fully this Christmas?

For the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B, music selections should reflect themes of trust, anticipation, and God’s promise. Songs about Mary’s “yes” to God, the coming of the Messiah, and the fulfillment of God’s covenant are fitting. Hymns celebrating God’s faithfulness and mercy echo the readings’ focus on salvation and hope. Pieces that highlight humility and praise also resonate with Mary’s response in the Gospel. These themes help prepare hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth.

• All the Poor and Powerless by All Sons & Daughters
• Behold the Lamb of God by Bob Dufford
• Blessed Be the God of Israel by Forest Green
• Come Holy Ghost by Louis Lambillotte
• Come Thou Long Expected Jesus by Christian F. Witt & Charles Wesley
• Come to Us by Greg Walton
• Creator of the Stars of Night by Randall Debruyn & David Brinker
• Doxology by Phil Wickham
• Gabriel’s Message by Matt Maher
• Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming by Tom Kendzia
• Luke 1: My Soul Rejoices by Owen Alstott
• My Soul Rejoices by Jackie François
• O Come, Divine Messiah by Abbé Simon-Joseph Pellegrin, Randall Debruyn & Mary of St. Philip
• O Come, O Come, Emmanuel by Tom Kendzia
• People Look East by Eleanor Farjeon
• Prepare the Way by Passion and Charlie Hall
• Psalm 89: For Ever I Will Sing the Goodness of the Lord by ValLimar Jansen & Frank Jansen
• Psalm 89: For Ever I Will Sing the Goodness of the Lord by Owen Alstott
• Ready the Way by Curtis Stephan
• Sing of Mary, Pure and Lowly by Gretchen Harris
• Soon and Very Soon by William F. Smith & Andraé Crouch
• The Angel Gabriel by Sabine Baring-Gould & Randall Debruyn
• Trading My Sorrows by Darrell Evans
• Your Promises by Elevation Worship

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections to enhance the liturgical experience. Consider how each piece connects with the Advent message of anticipation and faith. Share your thoughts and suggest other fitting songs in the comments to inspire others.

What is the main message of the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?

The main message is about trusting in God’s plan. It focuses on how God’s promises are fulfilled through Jesus, who comes from the house of David. Mary’s acceptance shows us how to respond with faith and trust.

Why is David mentioned in the first reading?

David is mentioned because God promises that his kingdom will last forever. This promise is fulfilled in Jesus, who comes from David’s lineage. It shows that God keeps His promises.

How does the first reading connect to the Gospel?

The first reading speaks of God’s promise to David about an everlasting kingdom. In the Gospel, this promise is fulfilled when the angel tells Mary that her child will reign forever. It shows the continuity of God’s plan.

Why is Mary important in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?

Mary is important because she trusts God completely and says yes to His plan. Her faith and humility make her a model for all believers. She shows us how to respond to God’s call.

What does it mean that Jesus will reign forever?

It means that Jesus’ kingdom is not just earthly but eternal. He is the King of Heaven and Earth, and His reign brings peace and salvation to all who believe in Him.

How can we apply Mary’s example to our lives?

We can follow Mary’s example by trusting God’s plan, even when we don’t understand it. Saying yes to God and being open to His will helps us grow in faith and love.

Why does the angel call Jesus the Son of the Most High?

This title shows Jesus’ special relationship with God. It means that Jesus is not just a great leader but also the Son of God, sharing in God’s power and authority.

What is the significance of Gabriel’s message to Mary?

Gabriel’s message announces the coming of the Savior and fulfills the promises made to David. It shows God’s love and faithfulness. Mary’s acceptance teaches us to trust and obey God.

What role does faith play in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B?

Faith is central because it shows how Mary trusted God without knowing all the details. It teaches us to have faith in God’s promises and to believe that He is always with us.

Why is obedience of faith mentioned in the second reading?

Obedience of faith means trusting and following God’s will. It’s about living according to God’s teachings, just as Mary did. It reminds us to put our faith into action.

How does the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B prepare us for Christmas?

It prepares us by focusing on trust, faith, and God’s promise of salvation. We reflect on Mary’s yes and Jesus’ coming as the fulfillment of God’s plan. It helps us open our hearts to receive Christ.