Reflection on the Readings at Mass for The Fourth Sunday of Advent (Year A). The Liturgical Sense of the Scriptures Podcast, by Catholic Author and Theologian David L. Gray.
The Theology of the Incarnation Through the Liturgy (Fourth Sunday of Advent) Year A
This episode explores the profound mystery of the Incarnation as revealed in the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Advent. The liturgy draws us into the promise that God approaches us personally and intimately through Christ and the Eucharist.
- Isaiah’s Prophecy (Isaiah 7:10-14): God promises a sign to King Ahaz: “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel” — God with us.
- Paul’s Witness (Romans 1:1-7): The Incarnation fulfills ancient promises, revealing Jesus as Son of God and descendant of David.
- Gospel Fulfillment (Matthew 1:18-24): Matthew recounts the Incarnation from Joseph’s perspective, affirming Jesus as Emmanuel and Yeshua — God with us and God saves.
- Liturgical Connection: The Mass mirrors this divine approach. Just as God came unasked to Ahaz and Mary, Christ comes to us in the Eucharist — the ultimate sign of God’s presence and saving love.
Key Message: The Incarnation is God’s intimate act of being with us and saving us. Through the liturgy, Christ approaches first, offering Himself as the new covenant. Let us adore and reverence the God who has been approaching us since the beginning.
THIS AUDIO COMMENTARY WAS BASED UPON THE WRITTEN VERSION IN: The Liturgical Sense of the Readings at Mass – Year A, by David L. Gray
The Liturgical Sense of the Readings at Mass, by David L. Gray
A 2006 convert from Agnosticism, David L. Gray has emerged as a prolific Catholic theologian, author, and humorist. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Central State University, Ohio, and a Master of Arts in Catholic Theology (ThM) from Ohio Dominican University. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Liturgical Catechesis at the Catholic University of America. For more information about Mr. Gray, please visit davidlgray.info
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