December 20, 2020

Promises Fulfilled

Bonnie Bowman Thurston | Read Luke 1:26-38

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

December 14–20, 2020

Scripture Overview

In the fourth week of Advent, we focus on prophecies of the arrival of the Messiah. When David commits to build a temple for God, God promises to build a house for David as well. This is the line of David that will rule forever, and Jesus comes from this line. In the first reading from Luke, Mary rejoices after her visit to Elizabeth, for she understands that her child will play a key role in God’s redemption. Paul reminds the Romans that his message about Christ did not begin with him. Instead, it is the fulfillment of promises made through the prophets. The second reading from Luke might more logically have come first this week, for it describes how Mary reveals the importance of this child in her song of rejoicing.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16. When have you thought you were participating in God’s plans and later realized you had misunderstood God’s desire or instruction?
Read Luke 1:47-55. Consider how you magnify the Lord. How do you pass on your faith to future generations?
Read Romans 16:25-27. Remember the carols you have been singing this Advent and have sung throughout your life. How do they help you proclaim the mystery of the Incarnation?
Read Luke 1:26-38. In this season of giving and receiving, how do you remember that God is the giver of all good gifts? How do you return your God-given gifts to God?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Scripture’s characteristic word from heaven to earth is “Do not be afraid.” When an angel announces this to a human, the human is usually “in for it.” To understand Mary’s response, we must understand Gabriel’s announcement. It isn’t evident in English, but three crucial words in verses 28 and 30...

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God of promises and grace fulfilled, in obedience to your will and purposes, we will recognize and return the gifts you have given us. Amen.

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