FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT
December 24, 2023
AS WE GATHER
The final Sunday of Advent is the last “little Easter” before the Church celebrates the birth of the Savior at Christmas. As an angel shared the good news of Jesus’ resurrection, so the angel Gabriel shares with Mary the good news of the Savior’s coming birth. God has promised to be present with His people, and now that presence is fully “in person” in the person of Jesus. The presence of God among and for His people is certain and everlasting. His kingdom endures forever and ever!
BIBLE READINGS
OLD TESTAMENT READING: 2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16
(A house that lasts forever is promised.)
EPISTLE READING: Romans 16:25–27
(Glory is ascribed to God forever.)
HOLY GOSPEL READING: Luke 1:26-38
(John the Baptist announces the coming of Jesus)