Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 21

Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)

Reflection

As soon as Jesus was born, visitors began to come. First it was the shepherds. Then the wise men. Then Simeon and Anna. Then even the soldiers of Herod were sent to find Him. Together these visitors represent the people of every nation, coming by every possible path and conveyance to see Christ.  These words of Zechariah’s Canticle, cited above, remind us that it was impossible to contain God in heaven. Through Jesus, He "visited" and "brought redemption" to us. He continues through Jesus and through us to dwell in our world today. When people look at us, do they think of Jesus?

Prayer for the Advent Wreath

Lord, our God, we praise You for Your Son, Jesus Christ, for He is Emmanuel, the Hope of all people.
He is the Wisdom that teaches and guides us.
He is the Savior of us all.
O Lord,
let your blessing come upon us as we light  all candles of this wreath.
May the wreath and its light be a sign of Christs promise of salvation.
May He come quickly and not delay.
We ask this in His holy name. Amen.

Advent Action

Look around you for a sign of Gods presence. When you find it, share it with someone.

Prayer

O come, O Key of David, come And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.