This Sunday, December 21, is the Fourth Sunday of Advent, and the theme for the readings is God’s presence and deliverance. This is the last week of Advent, leading up to Christmas on the 25th. The gospel is from the book of Matthew. Let’s take a look.
Gospel Text – Matthew 1:18-24
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.
“When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home, for it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.”
First Reading – Isaiah 7:10-14
Isaiah speaks to King Ahaz during political turmoil. Ahaz refuses to ask for a sign, but God gives one anyway. This prophecy points to God’s presence and deliverance. In Christian interpretation, it foreshadows the miraculous birth of Jesus, emphasizing divine intervention and God’s faithfulness.
Second Reading – Romans 1:1-7
Paul identifies himself as a servant of Christ, set apart for the gospel promised in Scripture. He highlights Jesus as descended from David yet declared Son of God by His resurrection. This passage emphasizes the continuity between Old Testament prophecy and the gospel, affirming Jesus as both human (from David’s lineage) and divine (the Son of God). It underscores grace, apostleship, and the universal call to belong to Christ.
Gospel Reading – The Presence of God on Earth – Matthew 1:18-24
This reading is the account of Jesus’ birth from Mary, conceived by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, initially planning to divorce her quietly, is reassured by an angel. The angel tells Joseph that Mary’s child is from the Holy Spirit and will be named Jesus, “for he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew explicitly cites Isaiah 7:14. This passage confirms the prophecy’s fulfillment, highlights Joseph’s obedience, and reveals Jesus’ mission as Savior. It emphasizes Emmanuel—God’s presence with humanity
The Catholic View
All of the readings this weekend affirm Jesus as both human (born of a woman, descended from David) and divine (Son of God, Emmanuel). Isaiah predicts, Matthew records, and Romans explains the significance. Each text shows God keeping His promises across centuries. Jesus is revealed as the one who saves His people from sin, embodying God’s presence and grace. This last reading prepares us for the celebration of the birth of Christ.
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Peace
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