The Advent season is a season of preparation – of prayer, contemplation, fasting, and spiritual renewal. It is a time in which the people of God, by God’s grace, make straight His paths in their hearts. Advent is a “time to slow down, to take stock of the things that matter the most, and to do a thorough inner housecleaning. As the ancient dogma of the Church asserts, Advent is a Little Pascha – a time of fasting, prayer, confession, and reconciliation.”
The readings for week four focus on the reality of the Incarnation and the truth that Christ brings salvation to all who believe.
Sunday, December 24th – Fourth Sunday of Advent
Luke 2:1-7 – Joseph and Mary journey to Bethlehem, Mary gives birth to Jesus.
Monday, December 25th - First Day of Christmas
Micah 4:1-7 – The Christ will bring blessing to “many nations”
Tuesday, December 26th - Second Day of Christmas
Luke 2:8-14 – Angels appear to the shepherds, telling them the good news of Christ’s birth, declaring “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and goodwill to men.”
Wednesday, December 27th - Third Day of Christmas
Psalm 98 – The Lord has made known His salvation to all the nations. “All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.”
Thursday, December 28th – Fourth Day of Christmas
Luke 2:15-20 – After being visited by the heavenly host, the shepherds journey to see Jesus, finding “Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.”
Friday, December 29th – Fifth Day of Christmas
Philippians 2:5-11 – Paul’s reflection on the mystery of the Incarnation, and the truth that all men will bow the knee and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father
Saturday, December 30th – Sixth Day of Christmas
Titus 2:11-3:7 – The “grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people” – grace that will bring about good works in all who believe