The Fourth Sunday of Advent, the last before the joyous celebration of Christmas, is a time imbued with special significance. It is a time of intense anticipation as we draw closer to the birth of Christ, and today's liturgy brings a note of deep love, symbolised by the fourth Advent candle.
The lighting of the fourth candle, often purple in colour, represents divine love incarnate in Jesus Christ. It is an act laden with symbolism, emphasising that the very essence of Christmas is the ultimate expression of God's love for humanity. This Sunday's liturgy focuses on the biblical stories that highlight God's immeasurable love, culminating in the gift of his Son to the world.
The biblical readings for the Fourth Sunday of Advent often delve into passages evoking the announcement of Jesus' birth. The story of the Annunciation, in which the archangel Gabriel appears to Mary to announce that she will be the mother of the Saviour, often takes centre stage. It is a moment imbued with grace and divine love, marking the beginning of a story that will change the course of humanity.
The liturgical colour for this Sunday can also change to white, symbolising the purity and light associated with the birth of Christ. This is a transition to the joyous celebration of Christmas, when light triumphs over darkness and divine love is fully manifested in the incarnation.
Household traditions also follow the liturgical rhythm. Families light the fourth candle on their Advent wreath, creating an intimate and sacred moment within their homes. Christmas preparations reach their peak, with gifts carefully wrapped, final decorations added, and excitement palpable as people prepare to celebrate the arrival of the Saviour.
Besides the liturgical aspects and traditions, the Fourth Sunday of Advent is an opportunity to meditate on the profound nature of divine love. It is a love that transcends borders, embraces humanity in all its diversity and offers the promise of redemption and eternal life. It is a love that gives itself without reserve, embodied in a vulnerable child born in a stable.
As we light the fourth Advent candle, each person is invited to contemplate the love that led to Jesus' birth and to meditate on how this love can transform our lives. It is a time to express our gratitude to God for this priceless gift and to share this love with those around us.
May this last Sunday of Advent be a celebration of the divine love that has changed the course of history. May the fourth candle light our hearts with the warmth of that love, dispelling the shadows of everyday life. May we all be enveloped in divine love at this special time, and may Christmas be a profound celebration of love incarnate in Jesus Christ.
