THE MYSTERY OF THE VIRGIN BIRTH
Introduction: We are in the fourth and final Sunday of Advent. Today's liturgy speaks to us about Emmanuel: God with us. First reading from the book of prophet Isaiah speaks about the birth of Emmanuel, born of a young woman. In the second reading, St. Paul in his letter to Romans speaks about the divine and human nature of Christ. He is born a human, but at the same time, He is Son of God. In the Gospel, we hear that Angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will bear a son by the power of the Holy Spirit. Mary had her own doubts but finally she accepts the invitation of the Angel and unconditionally says 'yes' to God's will. That 'yes' changed the life of Mary for ever and she became the mother of God. As we prepare for Christmas, let our preparations be more spiritual than mere external preparations.
First Reading: Isaiah 7: 10 to 14
Second Reading: Romans 1: 1 to 7
Gospel Reading: Matthew 1: 18 to 24
*First reading is from the book of prophet Isaiah. Isaiah foretells the birth of a very special child. He will be called Emmanuel. Ahaz the king of Judah is in great distress. The prophet encourages him to have faith in the Lord God. Isaiah's constant message to the king is to trust in the Lord God. Further he invites Ahaz to ask for a sign from the Lord God. Ahaz is reluctant and refuses to ask for a sign. However, Isaiah tells Ahaz that a sign will be given by the Lord God. A son will be born whose name will be Emmanuel: God with us.
*Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Romans. The opening lines from Paul to the Christian community at Rome is mentioned. Paul refers to the human and divine 'roots' of Jesus. He describes Jesus as a descendant of David and Son of God who is the fulfillment of all prophecies of the past.
Emmanuel: God with us Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. The fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah is mentioned. Jesus is seen as the royal child of the house of David: Born of a virgin. In Jesus, the dynasty of David continues. He is not only the son of David but also Son of God. Jesus is born of a virgin, Mother Mary. Mary's virginity points to the truth that Jesus is conceived without the intervention of a human father. A virgin mother has no precedent in any religious traditions. As we approach Christmas, the prophecy of Isaiah and it's fulfilment in Matthew is brought for a very specific purpose. It is to remind all of us that even in our most distressing situations of life, difficulties, disappointments and pains, God is with us. It is in those painful times that we realize the immense power and the greatness of the Almighty. In this context C. Coolidge says: "Christmas is not a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have a real spirit of Christmas." C. M. Schulz says: "Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone."
Conclusion: Many gifts and presents will be exchanged during this Christmas. But the greatest and the best gifts are not chocolates or expensive and glittering presents but the gift of Jesus Himself. Let us prepare our hearts to welcome Him.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
May the Emmanuel, born of a virgin, Bless you with His heavenly blessings during this Christmas. Amen.
(Kindly note: Sunday Reflections with Fr. Joy Joseph is available on YouTube. Please view, like, share and subscribe to the video version on YouTube. "YouTube/Sunday Reflections with Fr. Joy Joseph, December 21, 2025." Thanks.)
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