December 22, 2024 

Today’s readings: Fourth Sunday of Advent | USCCB 

 

I have been told that all events in Jesus’ life point toward the cross. That includes the happy, holy occasion of Mary’s visitation with Elizabeth as told in today’s Gospel. It also includes Jesus’ humble birth in a stable in Bethlehem, as will be told during the Christmas Eve Mass in just two days.  

How can this be? How can these peace-filled moments of Mary’s visit with her cousin and Jesus’ birth – two events that easily capture our imagination and fill our hearts with holy joy – point to Jesus’ crucifixion? Can’t we just “hold that thought” until the hopeful season of Advent and festive season of Christmas are behind us? 

Through these profound moments of Jesus’ human nature, we are gifted with a glimpse of the divine heavenly banquet that we pray will one day be ours. The Incarnation – the Word made flesh – is a precious gift to be treasured. But it is only complete through the Son of God’s death and resurrection. 

Today’s responsorial psalm serves as a directional or a clue along our path from Bethlehem to Calvary: “Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.” 

On the final Sunday of Advent, may we better prepare to adore him, to truly see his face. If we know him and love him first, then later we can comprehend an even greater gift of love when God fulfills his plan of salvation.