18 Dec
Sun
4th Sunday of Advent (B)
2 Sam. 7:1-5,8-11,16
Ps. 89:2-5,27,29
Rom. 16:25-27
Lk. 1:26-38
(Ps Wk IV)
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David, full of goodwill, wants to build a temple for God. But instead of David building a temple (house) for God, God will build a "house" an everlasting dysnasty for David, "Your house shall endure forever". Luke, in the Gospel reading, sees this promise ultimately fulfilled in the universal kingship of the Lord Jesus.

Luke wishes to teach us several truths about this king who is to be born as a child. First, he wants our affirmation in faith that Jesus' origin is a supernatural one, that He is born from God. Secondly, Luke brings out what role this child is to play in salvation history. Jesus who will reign over God's people forever, fulfilled the political expectation of Israel, which was very much alive in His day, in an imminent way. We are once again reminded that the political and social ministry of Jesus is intrinsically tied up with His Religious Ministry. Together they constitute his mission.

Only with the coming of Jesus Christ do we attain the right understanding of Israel's expectations. The mystery, hidden for many ages, is now revealed and made known to all the Gentiles. Salvation, coming to us through Jesus Christ is for all. We must be attentive and sensitive to this claim of Christianity. We do not have a monopoly over salvation just as we do not have a monopoly over God. Our God is a God of all and His salvation is for all people - He is a universal God, He is a saving God. Our constant response has to be:



"Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord".

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the dignity of men and women according to the creator's plan may be ever more deeply understood.
Elaboration

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