Advent 2020 (4th Sunday)

I must say, it’s nice to be back up here after so long and good to see you all again.

What a rotten year 2020 has been. COVID-19 has dominated our lives, not only locally or nationally but all over the world. The illness and death of loved ones, lives disrupted, movements restricted, unable to see our family and friends, loss of jobs – the list goes on.

And yet, there is hope, thanks to so many people in different professions. Doctors, nurses, scientists, carers, teachers, drivers are all key to helping us through this tough time and giving us hope and encouragement by their example. But we mustn’t forget that we also have something else: our faith. And here we are, pushing on through the holy season of Advent, a season of light, hope and anticipation.

Our four Advent candles lit today remind us of the Patriarchs, the Prophets, John the Baptist, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Although His candle has not yet been lit, the Advent candles also remind me of Our Lord, the Light who is coming into the world.

Today we focus on Mary and her unique role. Our Gospel reading reminds us of the moment where she is visited by the Angel Gabriel and told that she is to be the Mother of Our Lord. Advent is a time of preparation, a season of anticipation and hope, and in her own unique way, Mary gives us that hope. In her acceptance of the task set before her, Mary also gives us encouragement and sets us an example even in these most difficult and disruptive times.

We are in the middle of uncertain times which will prove challenging for us. Just as Mary did, we need to show our acceptance of the circumstances and the determination to meet the challenge set before us, so that this Christmas we may be ready to welcome Our Lord with hearts and minds renewed.

AMEN