4th Sunday of Advent Year A

• First Reading – Isaiah 7:10-14: God told Ahaz to ask for a sign. Ahaz refused, but Isaiah said God would give a sign: a virgin will bear a son named Emmanuel.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 24: The Lord owns the earth and all who live in it. Those with pure hearts and clean hands can stand in his holy place and receive his blessings.
• Second Reading – Romans 1:1-7: Paul, a servant of Jesus, greets the believers in Rome. He emphasizes Jesus’ divine and human natures and wishes them grace and peace.
• Gospel – Matthew 1:18-24: Joseph planned to divorce Mary quietly when he found out she was pregnant. An angel told him in a dream to take her as his wife because the child was from the Holy Spirit.

Lectionary Reference: 10

Upcoming dates: December 21, 2025, December 24, 2028, December 21, 2031

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A continues a time of waiting and hope. The readings show God’s promise, Jesus’ coming, and our call to trust.

• God’s Promise: God promises a sign through Isaiah, showing He is with His people. Jesus’ birth is the fulfillment of that promise.
• Faith and Trust: Ahaz struggles to trust God, but Joseph listens and obeys. Faith means believing even when we do not fully understand.
• Jesus as Emmanuel: The name Emmanuel means “God is with us.” Jesus comes to be close to His people and bring them hope.
• Obedience to God: Joseph follows God’s message despite fear and uncertainty. Trusting God often requires action, even when it is hard.
• God’s Plan for Salvation: Paul reminds the Romans that Jesus’ coming is part of God’s plan. Salvation is a gift meant for all people.
• Hope in Waiting: Advent is a time of waiting for Jesus. The readings remind us that God’s plan unfolds in His time.

Advent invites people to prepare for Jesus with faith and hope. The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us that God keeps His promises.

Litany of St. Joseph

The Litany of St. Joseph fits well with the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A because it honors Joseph’s faith and obedience. In the Gospel of Matthew 1:18-24, Joseph listens to God and takes Mary as his wife. He does not fully understand, but he trusts. The litany praises Joseph with titles like “Guardian of the Virgin” and “Faithful Servant of God.” These titles remind us that Joseph protected Mary and Jesus and followed God’s plan with courage.

This prayer also connects to Advent’s themes of waiting and trust. The litany calls Joseph the “Hope of the Sick” and “Patron of the Dying,” showing that he is a guide in difficult times. Just as Joseph cared for Jesus, he cares for those who seek his help. Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus, and Joseph is a model of how to listen to God. His example encourages people to trust in God’s plan.

Pray the O Antiphons

The O Antiphons connect with the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A by focusing on Jesus’ coming and His role in salvation. These prayers, used in evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours from December 17 to December 23, call Jesus by titles like “O Wisdom” and “O King of the Nations.” They use Old Testament imagery to proclaim that He is the promised Savior. This connects to the Gospel, where Joseph learns that Mary’s child is from the Holy Spirit. The antiphons help people reflect on who Jesus is and why He came.

Praying the O Antiphons is a meaningful way to prepare for Christmas. They express longing for Jesus and a desire for His presence. This fits with Advent’s theme of waiting and trusting in God’s plan, just as Joseph did. Including these prayers in family prayer during Advent can deepen faith and focus hearts on Christ. The O Antiphons help people welcome Jesus with hope and trust.

The Promise of Emmanuel

Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A by showing how time is not random or meaningless. Many ancient and modern views see time as a cycle or just a series of events with no direction. The Bible teaches otherwise. Time has a purpose because God is guiding it toward fulfillment. This fulfillment is found in Jesus, who is the center of history.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A highlights the promise of a king from David’s line. Isaiah tells Ahaz that a virgin will bear a son called Emmanuel. This promise connects to God’s earlier words to David and is fulfilled in Jesus. Joseph, called “son of David,” is told by an angel that Mary’s child is the Savior. Bishop Barron explains that this pattern shows God’s plan unfolding. History moves forward toward Christ, and we are part of this story.

God Comes to Be With Us

Jeff Cavins reflects on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A by focusing on the meaning of Emmanuel, which means God with us. Isaiah’s prophecy about a virgin giving birth is fulfilled in Jesus. Matthew connects this prophecy to Christ’s birth, showing that God is not distant but comes to be among His people. Unlike the gods of ancient myths, who stay above or use people for their own gain, God comes in love.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us that God does not need us, but He wants us. He desires a relationship with each person and invites them into His family. Jeff Cavins highlights the Catechism’s teaching that God created people to share in His life. Jesus’ birth is the ultimate sign of this love. Christmas is not just about gifts and traditions. It is about God’s pursuit of His people and His desire to adopt them as His own.

The Poverty of Christmas

Father Richard Rohr reflects on the Gospel for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A by reminding us that the first Christmas was not neat or perfect. Joseph chooses mercy over strict law when he stays with Mary. Jesus is born into struggle, with His family soon fleeing as refugees. God does not enter the world in power or wealth but in humility and weakness. He is found in the poor, the ordinary, and the unexpected.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A challenges people to see God differently. Many expect Him in grand and comfortable places, but He comes as a helpless child. Dorothy Day reminds us that if Mary had appeared in glory, people would have made space for her, yet she arrived in poverty. God hides in everyday life, teaching that holiness is found in simple and messy places. This truth calls for hope, trust, and a new way of seeing.

God Is with Us

Scott Hahn reflects on the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A by explaining how God’s promise is fulfilled in Jesus. The sign given to the House of David—a virgin bearing a son—is revealed in Mary. Jesus is both the Son of David and the Son of God. Through the Spirit, He is anointed, raised from the dead, and seated at God’s right hand. His Kingdom will last forever, just as God swore to David.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A also reminds us that through Jesus, all nations are called into God’s family. In Him, we are saved and made new. He cleanses our hearts and invites us to stand in God’s presence. The Eucharist continues this promise, keeping us united with Christ until the end of time. Scott Hahn emphasizes that Jesus is the long-awaited King, bringing salvation to all who believe.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A remains a season of waiting and hope. The readings show that God keeps His promises, calls everyone to salvation, and invites people to trust Him. Ahaz hesitates, but Joseph believes. These stories remind us to rely on God instead of fear. As Advent draws to a close, we can reflect on how we respond to God’s call.

God’s Promise is Fulfilled

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us that God always keeps His promises. In the first reading, Isaiah tells Ahaz that God will give a sign. This sign is a child called Emmanuel, which means God is with us. Even when people doubt, God remains faithful.

The Gospel shows how this promise is fulfilled in Jesus. He is the child who comes to bring hope to the world. God does not forget His people. He is with them, just as He said He would be.

This reading encourages trust in God’s plan. Even when things seem uncertain, God is present. Just as He promised Emmanuel, He promises to be with us too.

Salvation is for Everyone

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us that salvation is not just for a few. In the second reading, Paul tells the Romans that Jesus came for all people. No one is left out. God’s plan is bigger than any one nation or group.

Jesus is the Savior for everyone. No matter where someone comes from or what their past looks like, He welcomes them. Paul calls people to belong to Jesus and follow Him. This is an invitation for all.

Advent is a time to remember that Jesus’ coming is a gift. It is not something earned. It is freely given. As we prepare for Christmas, we can open our hearts to that gift and share it with others.

Trusting God Over Fear

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A shows two very different responses to God. Ahaz, the ruler of Judah, is surrounded by enemies. He is afraid and does not trust God to protect his kingdom. Even when Isaiah tells him to ask for a sign, he refuses. He relies on his own strength instead.

Joseph, on the other hand, listens to God. He might not understand everything, but when the angel speaks to him, he obeys. He chooses faith over fear. Because of his trust, he becomes part of God’s great plan.

These readings remind us that fear can hold us back from trusting God. Ahaz chose fear, while Joseph chose faith. Advent is a time to ask ourselves which path we are following.

The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A is a time to open our hearts to God’s plan. His promises are sure, His salvation is for all, and His guidance is trustworthy. As we prepare for Christmas, we can choose faith over fear and trust over doubt.

Prayer

Lord, help us to trust You as Joseph did. Give us faith to follow Your plan, even when we do not understand. Teach us to rely on Your promises instead of our fears. Guide us as we prepare for the coming of Jesus. May we welcome Him with open hearts. Amen.

• How does God’s promise in Isaiah give hope?
• Why do you think Ahaz refused to ask for a sign?
• What does the name Emmanuel mean for your faith?
• How does Joseph’s trust in God inspire you?
• What does Paul’s message about salvation teach us?
• How can Advent help you grow in faith?
• What fears keep people from trusting God?
• How can you rely on God instead of your own plans?
• Why is it important to remember that salvation is for everyone?
• What steps can you take to prepare for Jesus this Advent?

The music selections for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reflect themes of waiting, hope, and trust in God’s plan. Some songs focus on the coming of Jesus, just as the readings highlight the promise of Emmanuel. Others express a longing for the Savior, much like the prayers and prophecies in scripture. There are also hymns of praise and joy, celebrating God’s faithfulness in sending His Son. The readings show Joseph’s trust in God, and the music encourages people to prepare their hearts and welcome Christ with faith and love.

• Canticle of the Turning by Rory Cooney
• Come Emmanuel by Trevor Thomson
• Come Thou Fount by David Crowder Band
• Come Thou Long-expected Jesus by Chris Tomlin
• Creator of the Stars of Night by Marty Haugen
• Emmanuel by Steve Angrisano
• Even So Come by Passion
• Find Us Ready, Lord by Tom Booth
• Hope Is Dawning by Aaron Keyes
• I Have Loved You by Michael Joncas
• Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise by Walter C. Smith
• In Every Age by Janèt Sullivan Whitaker
• Jesus, Messiah by Chris Tomlin
• Let The Lord Enter by Christopher Walker & Paule Freeburg
• Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming by Daughters of St. Paul
• O Come, Divine Messiah by Robbie Seay Band
• O Come, O Come, Emmanuel by Daughters of St. Paul
• Psalm 24: Lord, This Is the People/Let the Lord Enter by Timothy R Smith
• Ready the Way by Curtis Stephan
• Song of Hope by Robbie Seay Band
• Soon And Very Soon by Andrae Crouch
• The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came by Sabine Baring-Gould & Randall Debruyn
• The Whole World Is Waiting for Love by Kathy Poelker

Music directors and musicians can use these selections to enrich worship and deepen the Advent experience. These songs help people reflect on the meaning of the season and connect with the scriptures. Try incorporating some of these pieces into Mass or prayer gatherings. Share your favorite Advent songs in the comments and suggest other music that fits this special time of waiting and hope.

What date is the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A?

The next date is Sunday December 21, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Advent Year B
4th Sunday of Advent Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A?

The Mass readings for Sunday December 21, 2025 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 7:10-14: The Sign of Emmanuel
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 24: The Lord’s Glory
Second Reading – Romans 1:1-7: Paul’s Greeting to the Romans
Gospel – Matthew 1:18-24: The Birth of Jesus Christ

Why does Isaiah talk about a sign from God?

Isaiah tells Ahaz that God will give a sign to show He is with His people. This sign is a child called Emmanuel, which means God is with us.

Why is the name Emmanuel important?

The name Emmanuel means that God is present with His people. Jesus is Emmanuel because He comes to live among us.

What is the main message of the first reading?

God promises to send a Savior to His people. This promise is fulfilled when Jesus is born.

Why is faith important in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A?

The readings show that faith means trusting God even when things are uncertain. Ahaz struggles with trust, but Joseph chooses to believe and obey.

What does Paul teach in the second reading?

Paul tells the Romans that Jesus was sent by God to bring salvation. He reminds them that they are called to belong to Jesus.

How does Joseph show obedience?

Joseph follows God’s message even though it is difficult. He listens and trusts instead of being afraid.

How can the Gospel reading help in daily life?

The Gospel shows that trusting God can be hard, but He leads us in the right way. Like Joseph, we can listen and follow even when things are unclear.

What does the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A teach about God’s promises?

The readings show that God keeps His promises. Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise to be with His people.

Why is waiting important in the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A?

Advent is a time of waiting for Jesus. The readings remind us that God’s plan takes time, but He always keeps His promises.

How can we prepare for Jesus during Advent?

We can pray, trust God, and try to follow His will. Advent is a time to grow in faith and hope.