4th Sunday in Advent, Year B
In our reading, we hear of God talking to King David. God called David to lead his people while he was looking after his sheep. God has always been with David, he destroyed all his enemies, made him famous. He promised that a member of his family will one day be a great king and like a son to him. Who is he referring to?
In our gospel, we hear the story of the angel Gabriel going to a young virgin named Mary who was engaged to Joseph, from the family of David. The angel told her she was chosen by God to give birth to a baby to be named Jesus. He will be the Son of God and his kingdom will never end. Mary asked how it would be possible and the angel told her the Holy Spirit will come to you. Her cousin, Elizabeth, will also have a baby, even though she seems too old. Mary said, “I am the servant of the Lord. Let what you have said be done.”
Jesse Tree Ornaments for this week:
White Lily: The angel Gabriel tells Mary she will be the handmaiden of the Lord, mother of our Saviour, Jesus. The white lily symbolizes new life and resurrection, hope for the future. Luke 1:26-38
Motherhood: Mary travels to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Bible pg 100
Tablet: John's father, Zechariah, was unable to speak when John was born so he wrote "John is his name" on a tablet. Luke 1:57-80.
Carpenter's Hammer: represents Joseph's profession and his uique role in Jesus' life. Matthew 1:19-25
White Candle: represents Jesus, the light of the world. Matthew 2:1-12
Manger: represents the story of Jesus' birth in a manger. Luke 2:1-15
Chi-Rho: Merry Christmas. First two letters of Greek word Christ. John 1-34.