| Fourth
Sunday of Advent
December 21, 2003
O Radiant Dawn, Sun of Justice!
Scripture:
Micah 5:1-4A; Hebrews 10:5-10; Luke 1:39-45
Reflection:
But who
am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me?- Luke 1:43
In today's
gospel reading, two words - joy and humility - provide food
for thought. As we picture the beautiful, young, happy Mary
hastening to visit her elderly cousin Elizabeth who is bearing
a child, our hearts must surely be touched. Mary who is ever
ready to help others now wants to help and share her joy with
Elizabeth. Imagine, if you can, the happiness at the greeting
of these two women. The baby in Elizabeth's womb stirred for
joy.
Elizabeth
is a model of humility for us. Let us think for a few minutes
about when Elizabeth said, "But who am I that the mother
of my Lord should come to me?" Do we express our gratitude
to God and Mary for their presence to us? Do we think of God's
goodness to us at so many times in our lives? This might be
a good time to thank Mary and Elizabeth for being our role models
in the practice of joy and humility.
Suggested
Action:
Pray the Magnificat with joy and reverence. Try to bring joy
to an elderly person today.
Sr.
Joanella Ryan
Staten Island, New York
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