SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20
2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Psalm 89; Romans 16 :25-27; Luke 1:26-38
Today's Scripture readings begin with the opulence of King David's palace. They end with Mary's simple reply to the Angel Gabriel: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word" (Lk 1:38). The space between those two images conveys a total reversal of expectation.
Even today, when so many of us have an image of God as absolute power, Luke's Gospel reverses this image. God humbly waits for a handmaid to say "yes." The Incarnation of Christ shows power not as we so often understand it but rather shows the profound humility of God.
Thomas Nairn, OFM
Member
SSM Health Ministries
Pause
Where in your own life can you more deeply appreciate the humility of God?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen