The fourth Sunday of Advent, which occurs on December 22, 2024, sets the stage for deep reflection as Christians prepare for the significant celebration of Christmas. This year's homily, rooted deeply in the Gospel of Luke, explores the urgency with which Mary travels to visit her relative Elizabeth—an encounter marked by mutual joy and divine purpose.
Why is Mary rushing to see Elizabeth? Initially, one might think it’s merely to offer support. But as the Gospel reveals, there’s much more to it. Mary’s visit is not simply about offering assistance; it’s inspired by the angel’s message, recognizing Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy as affirmation of God’s promise. Elizabeth, once labeled as barren, now visibly expects the miraculous birth of John. This moment reflects the central theme of divine intervention within human experience.
Both women, carrying new life within them, symbolize hope and transformation. The encounter between Mary and Elizabeth transcends the physical meeting; it signifies the joyous announcement of salvation to come. “The child in her womb leaps for joy,” symbolizes the divine acknowledgment of their unique roles within God’s plan. Their exchange goes beyond mere greeting, echoing the importance of community and support among women, especially as they embody the future of faith and promise.
Interestingly, Luke’s narrative style conveys multiple encounter stories which highlight the significance of divine interactions. The angel Gabriel’s visit to Zechariah, followed by his approach to Mary, sets the expectations for these encounters as pivotal moments of connection between heaven and earth. Through these parallels, we see how God desires to meet people where they are, initiated through relationships deeply rooted in love and care.
Joseph Lam, the parish priest, emphasizes, “God wants to meet and lets himself be experienced where human encounters succeed.” This declaration serves as a reminder of the sacredness of our everyday interactions. It suggests we must be willing to clear our personal distractions—our busy lives and ever-occupied minds—to create space for these divine encounters.
With Christmas approaching, Lam’s message resonates with great urgency; it’s about opening our hearts to the possibilities of growth and transformation through faith. This is the essence of Advent—preparing oneself internally as well as externally for the mystery of Christmas. It’s not just the celebration of Christ’s birth, but the acknowledgment of how He wishes to encounter humanity.
Pope Francis echoes these sentiments as he calls for all believers to be “pilgrims of hope on the path of peace.” On the night of Christmas, he will open the Holy Door, inviting pilgrims to reflect upon their faith journeys and their role within the Church’s broader mission of reconciliation and unity. “The world needs them greatly!” reads his heartfelt message, calling upon individuals to recognize the urgency of building welcoming homes where genuine connections can thrive.
The call to pilgrimage, inspired by St. Francis's example, urges believers to adopt hope, vigilance, and zeal. St. Francis’s steadfast commitment to following the Gospel is embodied during this season—a model we’re invited to imitate. His story inspires all to listen with intent and actively engage with one another.
Reflecting on the essence of community, this Advent season leads to the celebration of God’s encounter with humanity through Jesus Christ. The culmination of this period of waiting brings forth the reminder: God is willing to embrace humanity fully and intimately. “When we accept this… the encounter with him will really be successful,” Lam emphasizes, pointing to the divine at work within human relationships.
Beyond the narrative of Mary and Elizabeth, the linkage to personal and communal experiences becomes clear. The invitation is not only to encounter God ourselves but to facilitate spaces for others to meet Him through our actions and love. Every day offers chances to extend hope, compassion, and joy—a true reflection of what it means to be part of the Christian faith.
Christmas is not merely about celebration; it is about invitation and engagement. It’s about each of us stepping outside our doors and welcoming others as they seek something meaningful. Will we be the ones to offer our hearts and homes as places of genuine connection?
Joseph Lam concludes his message wishfully, “A celebration without end will take place if we are ready for it.” This powerful statement beckons all to prepare—heart and mind—for both the joy of Christ’s birth and the continuity of His love within our lives. Advent and Christmas serve as poignant reminders of what it means to truly engage with our faith communities, nurture connections, and build pathways toward peace and hope. Wishing you and your family a very blessed Christmas!
