4th Sunday of Advent Year A
Sunday December 24, 2028
God With Us Draws Near
The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A brings us very close to Christmas. The readings help us focus on who Jesus is and why He came. We hear the name Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” This is the message we hold onto as we get ready to celebrate His birth.
Each reading gives us something to think about. Isaiah speaks of a sign—a child born to a virgin. Paul reminds the early Christians that Jesus was promised long ago. The psalm talks about who can come into God’s presence. And in the Gospel, Joseph listens to God and chooses to stay with Mary.
These are not just stories from the past. They speak to us today. Like Joseph, we are asked to trust. Like Paul, we are called to share the good news. And like the people in Isaiah’s time, we are told that God will not leave us alone.
The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to quiet our hearts. It tells us that Jesus is near. We wait with hope and joy, knowing that God is coming to be with us.
Mass Readings for the 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.
The readings above are for lectionary cycle A. For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Advent Year B
4th Sunday of Advent Year C
Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.
Matthew 1:20
Themes for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
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.
Resources for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
- Quiet Strength: Lesson Plan on Saint Joseph
- Litany of St. Joseph
- Pray the O Antiphons
- Resources and Lesson Plans for Advent
- The Book of Isaiah: A Sign of Hope and Trust
- Psalm 24: Opening the Gates to the Lord
- The Letter to the Romans: God’s Son, Promised to All
- The Gospel of Matthew: God With Us in the Flesh
Quiet Strength: Lesson Plan on Saint Joseph
This lesson about St. Joseph shows teens that you don’t have to be loud or noticed to live with strength. Joseph doesn’t say anything in the Gospel. He listens, prays, and quietly does what is right. His story helps young people see that faith can be lived out in simple, steady choices.
It fits well with the 3rd Sunday of Advent Year A, when we are waiting for Jesus and trying to live in hope. Joseph waited, listened, and trusted God. This lesson helps teens learn that even when life is confusing, they can still choose faith, mercy, and courage.
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.
Resources and Lesson Plans for Advent
Advent is a time of waiting and preparing for Jesus. The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds people that God is faithful to His promises. The Advent resources help families and individuals focus on prayer, reflection, and good works. Activities like a Christmas tree blessing, reading scripture, and acts of kindness make this season meaningful. These practices help people prepare their hearts, just as Joseph prepared to welcome Jesus in the Gospel.
Advent also teaches trust in God’s plan. The Gospel shows Joseph’s faith when he follows the angel’s message. The Advent resources encourage people to deepen their faith through prayer and service. These small but meaningful actions remind people that Christ is coming. Advent is not just about waiting; it is about preparing with hope and faith.
- Let the Spirit of Advent Visit
- Do a Christmas Tree Blessing
- Have an Advent Prayer Service
- Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation
For more ideas and lesson plans, click here.
The Book of Isaiah: A Sign of Hope and Trust
The first reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A comes from Isaiah, a book full of messages about judgment and restoration. In this passage, God invites King Ahaz to ask for a sign, but Ahaz refuses out of false piety. Isaiah responds by declaring that God will give a sign anyway: a virgin will bear a son.
This moment highlights the theme of trust in God’s promises. Isaiah often speaks to a people in crisis, pointing to a future filled with God’s faithfulness. The sign of Emmanuel—God with us—becomes a key promise that echoes throughout the book. It reminds us that even when leaders fail, God is still present and working for the salvation of His people.
Psalm 24: Opening the Gates to the Lord
Psalm 24, the responsorial psalm for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, proclaims God’s authority over creation and calls for purity of heart. It describes a holy entrance into God’s presence, where only those with clean hands and sincere hearts may stand.
This psalm speaks to themes of worship and holiness. It was likely used in liturgical settings, especially when bringing the ark into the temple. It reminds us that true worship involves living rightly, not just ritual. As Advent closes, this psalm urges us to prepare our hearts to receive Christ, the King of Glory.
The Letter to the Romans: God’s Son, Promised to All
In the second reading for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, Paul introduces himself to the Christians in Rome. He begins by explaining that Jesus fulfills the promises made in Scripture. Jesus is the Son of God and also descended from David, tying him to both divine purpose and human history.
This introduction sets up the major theme of Romans: the righteousness of God offered to all people. Paul’s message is about the universal call to salvation, rooted in Christ. The greeting also shows how Paul sees his mission—to bring this good news to everyone, both Jew and Gentile.
Explore this message further in our article about the Letter to the Romans.
The Gospel of Matthew: God With Us in the Flesh
The Gospel for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A tells us how Joseph responded to Mary’s pregnancy. At first, he wanted to quietly end the engagement. But after an angel appeared in a dream, Joseph chose to trust God and take Mary as his wife.
This passage connects to the major themes of Matthew’s Gospel, especially fulfillment of prophecy and obedience to God’s plan. Joseph’s choice reflects faithful action. Matthew often highlights how Jesus fulfills Old Testament promises. Here, “Emmanuel” becomes real in Jesus—God is truly with us.
Learn more about this theme in our summary of the Gospel of Matthew.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
- Waiting Well: Unconditional Hope (Fr. Mike Schmitz)
- Are You Willing to Surrender to God? (Bishop Robert Barron)
- Dare to Ask (Order of Preachers)
- The Lord Himself Will Give You a Sign (Pray As You Go)
- Astounded by God With Us (Jesuits)
- The Faith Question (Dynamic Catholic)
- Joseph and the Promise of God With Us (USCCB)
- God Comes to Be With Us (Jeff Cavins)
- The Poverty of Christmas (Fr. Richard Rohr)
- God Is with Us (Scott Hahn)
- More Homilies and Reflections for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
Waiting Well: Unconditional Hope
This homily from Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on waiting when prayers seem unanswered. On the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, the focus is not on getting the outcome we want, but on learning how to hope in God himself. Fr. Mike shares stories of longing, loss, and deep disappointment. He reminds us that even when we wait well, life may still say no. Faith does not guarantee results, comfort, or success.
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A point us to a deeper hope. God’s promise is not freedom from suffering, but his presence in it. Fr. Mike points to Habakkuk, the saints, and modern witnesses who chose joy without answers. Christian hope rests in trusting God, not outcomes. Even in grief, we praise God for what has been given and trust that he remains with us.
Are You Willing to Surrender to God?
For the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, this homily calls for a deep change of heart. Bishop Robert Barron challenges the habit of putting the self at the center. Modern life often says everything is about my choice and my control. The readings push back against that idea. King Ahaz refuses to ask God for a sign. Saint Paul calls himself a servant, not his own master. Both point to the need to let go and trust God’s purpose.
The Gospel turns to Joseph, who listens to God in a dream and obeys. Joseph does not have full control or full understanding, yet he acts in faith. That choice allows God’s promise to unfold. Emmanuel, God with us, becomes real through surrender. For the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, Bishop Barron invites reflection on a simple question: will life stay centered on the self, or open to God’s call?
Dare to Ask
In this reflection for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, Celeste Mueller speaks about the fear many people feel when it comes to faith. She reflects on how some choose distance instead of trust. They worry about disappointment, pain, or change. It can feel safer to stay cool and guarded. Her words echo the ache many feel for loved ones who struggle with faith or have stepped away.
Celeste Mueller reminds us that God does not stay distant. The Holy Spirit is active, even in chaos, wounds, and doubt. Emmanuel means God is with us, always. She invites us to slow down and notice the signs already around us. She also challenges us to live in a way that helps others see those signs. On this 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, the call is simple and brave: dare to ask God for a sign and stay open to what God may reveal.
The Lord Himself Will Give You a Sign
This reflection for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A invites quiet listening. A song about angels sets a calm and joyful tone. The reading from Isaiah shows God inviting King Ahaz to ask for a sign. Ahaz hesitates, yet God still acts. The promise of a child named Emmanuel points to God choosing closeness, even when people resist or feel unsure.
The reflection then turns inward. It asks where we hold back from God’s invitations and what we learn when that happens. Even in reluctance, God remains faithful. Emmanuel, God with us, speaks to real needs today. The prayer encourages gratitude for Jesus and openness to share this hope with others. This reflection comes from Pray As You Go and centers on welcoming God’s nearness during Advent.
Music: Angels We Have Heard On High by SisterBrother
Astounded by God With Us
This Jesuit reflection for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A looks at the quiet trust of Joseph in the Gospel from Matthew. Joseph faces fear and confusion, yet he listens to the angel and obeys. The reflection highlights how the Holy Spirit works beyond human limits. God acts even when things seem impossible. The manger becomes the clear sign that God still chooses closeness with humanity.
The author, Joe Ertle, invites readers to notice their own doubts. Even with many signs of God’s faithfulness, it is easy to question whether God still works for good. Advent calls for patience and trust. By waiting and watching, hearts are opened to Emmanuel, God with us. The reflection ends with a simple prayer, asking for a deeper desire to remain close to God.
The Faith Question
This Dynamic Catholic reflection for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to listen to familiar Scripture with fresh attention. Matthew Kelly suggests slowing down and looking for one word or idea that catches the heart. When a reading feels too familiar, it is easy to stop listening. By staying open, the message can speak in a new way. He focuses on Joseph, who trusted a dream and acted without long explanations.
Matthew Kelly then points to two ways of living. One asks if God might be at work. The other asks how God is already at work. The second question comes from faith and trust. It assumes God is present and active. On the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, this reflection encourages us to look at our lives with belief instead of doubt and to stay curious about how God is working in each moment.
Joseph and the Promise of God With Us
For the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A, this reflection shifts attention to Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew. While other Gospel stories focus on Mary, Matthew highlights Joseph’s role. After learning of Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph chooses kindness and mercy. He plans to protect her from shame. In a dream, God reveals the work of the Holy Spirit. Joseph listens, trusts, and accepts his role as the legal father of Jesus.
Fr. Greg Friedman explains that Joseph’s dreams guide him, much like the Joseph of the Old Testament. These dreams help protect Jesus and move the Holy Family where they need to be. The name Emmanuel, God with us, frames Matthew’s Gospel from beginning to end. This promise points to the risen Jesus, who remains with his people. Advent invites trust in that steady presence, both at Christmas and throughout life.
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.
More Homilies and Reflections for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
The Promise of Emmanuel (Word on Fire: Bishop Robert Barron)
Reflection for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
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.
Reflection Questions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
- 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?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
Mary Awaiting Emmanuel
Looking for a beautiful visual for your parish bulletin or newsletter? This vibrant image for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A captures Mary in quiet expectation, a reminder of the hope and joy of the coming Savior.
Download this image to enrich your Advent materials and share the message of Emmanuel—God with us.
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The Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.
As we draw near to Christmas, let us learn from Saint Joseph how to cultivate spaces for silence in which another Word can emerge, that of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.
Pope Francis
Music Suggestions for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
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.
Questions and Answers for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A
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.
Waiting with Faith and Hope
The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A marks the closing of a season of waiting. The readings remind us that God keeps His promises. Isaiah speaks of a child who will be called Emmanuel, which means God is with us. This promise is fulfilled in Jesus, who comes to bring hope and salvation.
The Gospel tells the story of Joseph, who trusts God even when things seem unclear. He listens to God’s message and obeys. His faith shows the importance of trusting God’s plan. Paul’s letter to the Romans also speaks about Jesus and how we are called to follow Him.
Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus. The 4th Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect on God’s promises and how we respond. Faith, trust, and hope are important as we wait for Jesus to come into our lives.
Your Turn
Advent is a time of waiting and trust. 4th Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us to listen to God and follow His plan. The readings show how faith leads to hope and action.
Take a moment to reflect on these readings. How do they connect to your life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let’s learn from each other as we prepare for Jesus.
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