4TH SUNDAY OF ADVENT, YEAR B

2 Samuel 7:1-5.8-12.14.16

Psalm 88:2-5.27.29

Romans 16:25-27

Luke 1:26-38

THE UNCOVERING OF THE HIDDEN SECRET 

On this last Sunday of Advent, the Liturgy of the Word speaks of the fulfillment of God's promise to mankind, and highlights the role of Mary in the history of salvation. In the first reading, King David had a plan: to build a house for the Ark of God. But God rejected the proposal and promised him instead a house, to establish for him an everlasting kingdom of peace and prosperity (2Sam. 7:1-5.8-12.14.16).

This promise made to king David finds its fulfillment in the Annunciation story. With the Annunciation, Mary was to give birth to a son and give him the name Jesus. God will give him the throne of his father David. He will be great, holy, and the Son of the Most High, for he will be conceived by the action of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1,26-38).

Mary therefore had a choice to make: to say yes or no to God. It is important to note that this was not an easy choice: she was a virgin and promised to marriage to Joseph. But with humility and courage, she said “yes” to God. She trusted God, with whom nothing is impossible. In saying “yes”, her trusting faith changed our story. With her “yes”, God became one of us, the Old Testament promises found their fulfillment. Here belies the greatness of Mary: by her “yes”, she became the Mother of God’s own Son. Therefore, by Mary’s “yes” to God, the mystery kept secret for ages was revealed to us, the hidden secret was uncovered. God’s plan of our salvation became realized (Rom. 16:25-27).

Moreover, it could be observed that king David and the Virgin Mary had their own plans. But God had bigger plans for their lives. Thus, they allowed the will of God to be done. Indeed, salvation is a gift; and God has a project for each of our lives: all we need is to cooperate with him. May we therefore learn to avail ourselves to God's will. Let each of us say a free, unconditional and courageous 'Yes' to God even if we must sacrifice our own plans. Let us always remember: God is faithful. He always keeps his word. May he bless and keep all of us. Amen