Sunday, December 19, 2021
The readings for the Fourth Sunday in Advent for Year C focus on hospitality, history, and family. In the first reading (Micah 5:1-4A) we learn that the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem. The psalm (Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19.) begs”Rouse your power, and come to save us.” In the second reading (Hebrews 10:5-10) we hear that what God really desires is for us to do his will. In the gospel (Luke 3:10-18), Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth and Elizabeth recognizes that Mary is carrying the anointed one.
These readings might lead into a discussion of what it means to welcome and greet another person. They also make us think about how events in our lives fit into a larger context. Here are some ideas:
A Charlie Brown Christmas emphasizes the religious nature of the Christmas holiday. But did you ever notice that Linus drops his blanket during the show?
Consider going to reconciliation as a family or with youth group or youth ministry. And then do something afterwards to celebrate this beautiful gift of grace from our Lord. Go out for pizza together or something similar.
The "O Antiphons" are part of the evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours for December 17 to December 23. In them, Old Testament imagery is used to proclaim the coming of the Christ child. Incorporate them into your family prayer this advent.
When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
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