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4th Sunday Advent (C)
Mic 5:1-4a
The reading highlights the prophet Micah’s condemnation of the sins of Israel and Judah, predicting their downfall. He identifies Bethlehem, the hometown of David, as a place of hope for the future Messiah. While the town is small and insignificant (v1), its importance lies in its connection to David and the Messiah’s origins. Micah suggests that the period of exile will end with the Messiah’s birth, bringing restoration to the people (v2). Unlike previous rulers who angered God (v3f), this future king will be guided by the Lord, concerned for the welfare of his people, and will establish a universal, lasting peace, (v4).
Heb 10:5-10
The passage from Hebrews summarizes Christian soteriology underlining the superiority of Jesus’ sacrifice compared to Jewish sacrifices. It begins with a quote from the Septuagint version of Psalm 40, highlighting the significance of Jesus’ body as a personal offering (v10). The author contrasts Jesus’ sacrifice, which replaces the old covenant (v9b),with the four types of Jewish sacrifices (v5). The text emphasizes that Jesus’ obedience and sacrifice fulfill God’s will, establishing a new covenant) and a new people of God (vv9f). Ultimately, Christ’s single sacrifice is deemed to have unlimited efficacy (v10).
Lk 1:39-45
The account of Mary’s visit to Elizabeth in Luke highlights the theological significance of their meeting, representing the convergence of the two covenants. Key points include:
1. The recognition of Jesus’ superiority by John, who leaps in Elizabeth’s womb (v44), mirroring the biblical story of Jacob and Esau.
2. Elizabeth defers to Mary, emphasizing John’s role as the precursor to Jesus, acknowledging the salvific event through his reaction.
3. The meeting symbolizes the old covenant, represented by Elizabeth, Zechariah, and John, and the new covenant, represented by Mary, Joseph, and Jesus (v41).
4. Elizabeth acknowledges the blessedness of both Mary and Jesus, paralleling themes later found in the “Hail Mary”, (cf 1:25-38).
5. Mary’s response, the Magnificat, reflects her humility and gratitude towards God, acknowledging her faith and the importance of the anawim, or the poor of God (vv46-55).
6. The visitation underscores the humble origins of Jesus, conveying a message of simplicity and domesticity.
We are often easily impressed by fame and wealth, and many of us do not shy away from notoriety when it comes our way. As Christmas approaches, today’s liturgy reminds us of the humble beginnings of the Lord and Mary’s humility. We pray that we, too, may be humble enough to be obedient like Jesus and Mary so that God’s plan can be fulfilled. Amen!
