We enter the Fourth Sunday of Advent, which presents the passage from Luke 1:26-38. The themes of waiting, faith, and God’s redemptive plan are wonderfully revealed in the conversation between the angel Gabriel and Mary. Divine Favor and Human Response are particularly relevant moments for us. Let’s see how this plays out in reality.
Devotional for the 4th Sunday of Advent
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” (full text at Luke 1:26-38)
The Mystery of Grace
This pivotal moment in the Advent story invites us to draw inspiration for our lives by daring to open the door to God when we hear His knock.
Divine Favor and Human Response
Remember the passage in Revelation to John where God says: “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20)
God is the initiator of the relationship with man. He extends his hand and invites us to join him on the journey of life. The most beautiful moment in everyone’s personal story is when they decide to respond to God’s invitation of their own free will. What is the most beautiful thing that can happen in your life? It is to open the door of your life to God.
This Gospel story perfectly illustrates Divine Favor and Human Response. Though afraid of the future, Mary decides to open the door: “May your word to me be fulfilled.”
The Power of the Most High
It often seems to man that where God is calling him is an impossible mission. But what makes it all possible is that in the journey together, God goes first, cutting a path through every situation and circumstance so that man can pass through to his goal. In this way, impossible things become possible. Remember this!
We are talking about God, who is all-powerful, not about limited man. Jesus’ incarnation is a clear illustration of this.
Mary’s Fiat – Let It Be
Mary’s response, “May your word to me be fulfilled,” is a powerful expression of faith. The person responds to God, “If I have accepted Your invitation once, then I trust You completely. Show me the way, guide me.”
Mary’s “fiat” position enables God’s plan of Salvation for humanity to be realized.
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Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Mary’s example of faithfulness and obedience. Help me to emulate her willingness to embrace Your plan, even when it’s beyond my understanding. As I prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, renew in me a sense of wonder and joy at the incredible gift of Your Son. May the reality of the Incarnation draw me closer to You and deepen my faith. Guide me, Lord, to be open to Your will in my life and to respond with a willing heart to Your call, just as Mary did. I pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior, born of Mary. Amen.
To You
As you prepare for Christmas, reflect on the relationship between God’s grace and your choices in your life. How can Mary’s response to God’s plan inspire your faith journey?
My brother, on this Fourth Sunday of Advent, may you find joy and inspiration in the story of Mary and the angel. May her faith strengthen your faith as you look forward to celebrating Christ’s birth, the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation. Amen.
