The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, December 24, 2023—Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaries
Sunday, December 24, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Advent

Divine Promises and Fulfillment:

A Journey Through Faith and Prophecy

2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16; Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26;

Romans 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Advent 4)

Introduction

As we gather on the Fourth Sunday of Advent, our hearts and minds are immersed in the themes of divine promises and their fulfillment, as revealed in the sacred scriptures. In 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, we reflect on God's covenant with David, promising a kingdom that will endure forever, symbolizing the everlasting reign of Jesus. Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 echoes this promise, celebrating God's faithfulness and the establishment of David's throne for all generations. In Romans 16:25-27, Paul's doxology glorifies God, who strengthens our faith through the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages but now disclosed. Lastly, Luke 1:26-38 brings us to the Annunciation, where Mary's humble acceptance of God's will heralds the imminent arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These passages collectively guide us in understanding the depth of God's promises and the fulfillment that comes through faith and prophecy, illuminating the path to the birth of our Savior.

This Is Advent Love

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Opening Prayer
(Luke 1, Romans 16)

Heavenly Father, as we gather on this blessed Fourth Sunday of Advent, our hearts rejoice in the anticipation of Your greatest gift, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Inspired by the faith of Mary in Luke 1, we embrace Your will with open hearts and unwavering trust. May the Holy Spirit, who filled Elizabeth and brought joy to her and Mary, fill our lives with the same joy and praise.

As we reflect upon the words of Romans 16, we are reminded of Your divine plan, woven through the ages, now revealed and made known to all nations through the prophetic writings. May this knowledge strengthen our faith and guide our actions.

Lord, in this Advent season, fill us with love, peace, and hope. May our spirits be uplifted by Your grace, and may our actions reflect the love and humility exemplified by Christ. As we await the celebration of His birth, let our hearts be filled with joy and gratitude for the gift of salvation.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(Luke 1, Romans 16)

Heavenly Father, as we gather on this Fourth Sunday of Advent, our hearts turn to the scriptures of Luke 1 and Romans 16. We confess our human frailties and the ways we fall short of Your glory.

In the spirit of Mary’s humble acceptance of Your will, we acknowledge our struggles to fully surrender to Your plans. Forgive us for the times we have doubted Your promises, as Zechariah initially doubted the angel’s message.

We confess the moments we have failed to recognize Your work in our lives, and the times we have not trusted in Your providence. Help us to embody Mary's faith and Zechariah's eventual joy in Your plans.

Lord, as Paul reminds us in Romans 16, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in our way that are contrary to the teaching we have learned. Forgive us for the times we have contributed to discord rather than promoting Your love and unity.

Guide us to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. Help us to be strong in You and in Your mighty power, spreading the message of peace and reconciliation, just as the angels proclaimed on that holy night.

As we wait in hopeful anticipation for the celebration of Christ’s birth, renew in us a spirit of unity and love. Let our hearts be filled with Your grace and compassion, and let our lives reflect the light of Christ to the world.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Luke 1, Romans 16)

Beloved, as we gather on this blessed Fourth Sunday of Advent, let us embrace the assurance of God's unfailing mercy and grace. In the spirit of Luke 1, where the angel Gabriel brought the good news of Jesus Christ to Mary, we are reminded that nothing is impossible with God. Just as Mary received the message with faith and humility, let us open our hearts to the divine promises of redemption and hope.

In Romans 16, Paul speaks of the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, now disclosed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God. This mystery is Jesus Christ, through whom we receive grace and the call to belong to Him.

Therefore, as we light the fourth candle of Advent, let us acknowledge our human frailties and seek forgiveness with contrite hearts. In doing so, we are assured that our sins are forgiven through the grace and love of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

In Him, we find our strength and our salvation. Let us rejoice, for the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let the joy and peace of the Lord fill our hearts and guide our paths.

Through Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Amen.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Divine Promises and Earthly Kingdoms

As we approach the Fourth Sunday of Advent, our focus turns to the rich tapestry of divine promises and human aspirations, beautifully illustrated in 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16. This passage offers a profound dialogue between King David and God, mediated through the prophet Nathan. David, settled in his palace, contemplates building a house for the Lord. Yet, it is God who reveals a different plan, not just for a physical structure, but for an enduring dynasty. This scripture invites us to ponder the nature of God's promises and the fulfillment of divine plans in ways that often defy human expectations.

7 1 After the king was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, 2 he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.”

3 Nathan replied to the king, “Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you.”

4 But that night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying:

5 “Go and tell my servant David, ‘This is what the Lord says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? 6 I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling. 7 Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?”’

8 “Now then, tell my servant David, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men on earth. 10 And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning 11 and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies.

“‘The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you.

Commentary

In 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, we encounter a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, where human initiative meets divine intention. David, having united the kingdom and secured peace, desires to build a temple for God as a symbol of gratitude and devotion. However, God, through Nathan, turns the tables, promising David not a task, but a legacy. This promise of an everlasting dynasty is not based on David's achievements or piety but on God's unconditional grace.

This passage challenges our understanding of God's blessings. Often, we conceive our relationship with God in transactional terms—service in exchange for blessings. However, God's promise to David illustrates a relationship grounded in grace and covenant. It's a divine assurance that transcends temporal structures and human accomplishments.

Moreover, the promise of an everlasting kingdom finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, a descendant of David. As we reflect on this during Advent, we are reminded that God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways, transcending our limited visions and timelines. This season calls us to trust in God's promises, recognizing that they are often grander and more far-reaching than our most ambitious dreams.

In conclusion, 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 is not just about a king desiring to build a temple; it's a story of divine faithfulness intersecting with human history. It invites us to reflect on our own intentions and ambitions, encouraging us to align them with God's broader and more inclusive vision. As we light the fourth candle this Advent, let us embrace the hope and assurance found in God's enduring promises, remembering that they are fulfilled in ways beyond our imagination.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26
Steadfast Love and Faithfulness

As we gather on this Fourth Sunday of Advent, our hearts turn to the enduring messages of Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26. These verses speak to us of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, echoing the Advent promise of hope and redemption. Through this Psalm, we are reminded of the covenant made with David and the assurance of God's unwavering commitment to His people. As we reflect on these verses, we are invited to contemplate the depth of God's love and the certainty of His promises, preparing our hearts for the coming of Christ.

1    I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; *
        with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known
            through all generations.

2    I will declare that your love stands firm forever, *
        that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself.

3    You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, *
        I have sworn to David my servant,

4    ‘I will establish your line forever *
        and make your throne firm through all generations.’”

19  Once you spoke in a vision,
            to your faithful people you said: *
        “I have bestowed strength on a warrior;
            I have raised up a young man from among the people.

20  I have found David my servant; *
        with my sacred oil I have anointed him.

21  My hand will sustain him; *
        surely my arm will strengthen him.

22  The enemy will not get the better of him; *
        the wicked will not oppress him.

23  I will crush his foes before him *
        and strike down his adversaries.

24  My faithful love will be with him, *
        and through my name his horn will be exalted.

25  I will set his hand over the sea, *
        his right hand over the rivers.

26  He will call out to me, ‘You are my Father, *
        my God, the Rock my Savior.’

Heavenly Father, on this sacred Fourth Sunday of Advent, we immerse ourselves in the profound truths of Psalm 89. We are humbled and grateful for Your steadfast love and faithfulness that have stood the test of time. As Your promises to David resonate through the ages, we see a reflection of Your unchanging commitment to us, Your children. May our hearts be filled with the joy and hope of Your eternal covenant. Guide us to embody Your love and faithfulness in our lives as we await the birth of Jesus, our Savior. In His holy name, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles
Romans 16:25-27
Embracing the Mystery: A Journey of Faith and Revelation

As the Fourth Sunday of Advent dawns, we turn our hearts to Romans 16:25-27, a passage rich with the theme of revelation and the power of God's eternal plan. This scripture, nestled at the conclusion of Paul's epistle to the Romans, serves as a doxology, a moment of praise and recognition of the Divine's omnipotence and wisdom. In this sacred time of Advent, as we anticipate the birth of Christ, these verses invite us to reflect on the unfolding of God's mysteries, revealed through Jesus, and the journey of faith that calls us ever deeper into the heart of the Divine mystery.

16 25 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, 26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

Commentary

Romans 16:25-27 encapsulates the essence of Advent as a time of awaiting and revealing. Paul speaks of the mystery hidden for long ages past, now disclosed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God. This revelation, brought to light in the person of Jesus Christ, is the heart of our Advent journey. It's a time to ponder how God's plan, once veiled in mystery, has unfolded through history, culminating in the birth of Jesus. This passage invites us to embrace the mystery of our faith: that God's ways are beyond our understanding, yet He has chosen to reveal Himself to us in a manner so profound and personal. As we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, we are reminded of the universality of God's revelation. The doxology concludes by affirming God's wisdom and the glory that is His through Jesus Christ forever. In these words, we find a call to worship, to praise, and to embrace the mysterious journey of faith, trusting in the God who reveals Himself in unexpected ways and times. This Advent, let us open our hearts to the wonder of God's revelation, finding joy and awe in the journey towards the manger, where the greatest mystery of all time was lovingly revealed to the world.

Today’s Gospel Reading
Luke 1:26-38
Embracing the Promise: The Annunciation of Mary

On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, we reflect on Luke 1:26-38, a passage that illuminates the Annunciation of Mary. This sacred moment, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will bear the Son of God, encapsulates themes of divine promise, faith, and the transformative power of God's plan. As we approach the celebration of Christ's birth, this passage invites us to contemplate the depth of Mary's faith and the profound mystery of the Incarnation. It's a time to recognize how God's plans often defy our expectations and to open our hearts to the wonder and hope of the Advent season.

1 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.”

38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Commentary

Luke 1:26-38 captures a pivotal moment in Christian theology—the Annunciation. This passage is rich with themes of divine intervention, humility, and faith. The angel Gabriel's visit to Mary symbolizes God's choice of the humble and pure-hearted for His grand purposes. Mary's response, "I am the Lord’s servant," reflects her profound humility and willingness to participate in God's plan, despite the uncertainties and potential societal repercussions.

This narrative also presents a powerful contrast between human apprehension and divine assurance. Mary's initial reaction is one of perplexity and fear, a natural response to such an extraordinary revelation. However, Gabriel's words, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God," reassure her and by extension, all believers, of God's unfailing guidance and support in times of doubt and fear.

Furthermore, the passage underscores the theme of God's omnipotence. The announcement of Jesus' birth is not just the beginning of a story; it’s the unfolding of salvation history, where the impossible becomes possible through God. The virgin birth, a central tenet of Christian faith, highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception, affirming the belief in His divine origin.

As we meditate on this passage during the Advent season, it encourages us to embrace faith in the face of uncertainty, to trust in God's promises, and to open ourselves to the transformative power of His plan. Just as Mary accepted her role in this divine narrative, we are called to welcome Jesus into our lives, recognizing Him as the fulfillment of God's promise and the embodiment of hope and salvation.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

The Nicene Creed

• We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

• And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.

• And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven

Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion

A nondenominational serving of bread and wine

Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.

Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)

Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the life and love of Christ, that we may be the body of Christ for the world, redeemed and unified by Christ’s love and grace. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ, one with one another, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory and we feast at your heavenly banquet. Through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forevermore. Amen.

Benediction
(Luke 1, Romans 16)

May the grace of the Lord who chose Mary, a humble servant, to bear the Savior of the world, be upon you.

As you await the joy of Christmas, may your hearts be filled with the same wonder and faith that filled Elizabeth when she greeted Mary.

May the Lord, who made the promises to Abraham and his descendants, strengthen you in your faith, filling you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, just as it was revealed to the prophets and apostles.

In the spirit of the words of Mary, may your soul glorify the Lord, and your spirit rejoice in God your Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servants.

As we light the fourth candle of Advent, may the light of Christ illuminate your path, guiding you in obedience and faith, leading you to the everlasting joy of His presence.

In the name of Jesus, who is coming soon, Amen.

Mary Did You Know

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries by Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, December 24, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Divine Promises and Fulfillment: A Journey Through Faith and Prophecy
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16; Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26; Romans 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38
As we gather on the Fourth Sunday of Advent, our hearts and minds are immersed in the themes of divine promises and their fulfillment, as revealed in the sacred scriptures. In our reading in 2nd Samuel, we reflect on God's covenant with David, promising a kingdom that will endure forever, symbolizing the everlasting reign of Jesus. Our Psalm reading echoes this promise, celebrating God's faithfulness and the establishment of David's throne for all generations. In Romans, Paul's doxology glorifies God, who strengthens our faith through the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages but now disclosed. Lastly, our gospel reading in Luke brings us to the Annunciation, where Mary's humble acceptance of God's will heralds the imminent arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These passages collectively guide us in understanding the depth of God's promises and the fulfillment that comes through faith and prophecy, illuminating the path to the birth of our Savior.