The Gospel of Luke is our principal guide through the final days of Advent till the feast of  Christmas. These days are our “novena” preparing for the mystery of Christmas.

 December 17th and December 18th we read Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus and his account of Jesus’ birth.

December 19 The angel’s announcement to Zechariah the priest about the birth of John the Baptist. (Luke 1: 5-26)

December 20. The angel announces to Mary that she will bring “the Son of God” into the world. (Luke 26-38) 

December 21. Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth to share this Good News. ( Luke 1:39-45 )

December 22. The 4th Sunday of Advent. The gospel account of Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is repeated. ( Luke 1:46-56) 

December 23. Elizabeth gives birth to John, who will announce the coming of Jesus: (Luke 1:57-66)

December 24. Zechariah praises God’s compassion towards those who “dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.” (Luke 1:67-79.)

December 25 Christmas. The evening readings for Christmas are:  

Isaiah 9: 1-6

Timothy 2:11-14

Luke 2:1-14, The story of the Birth of Jesus Christ

Old Testament readings add their voice to the gospel accounts.  A number of stories, like the unpredictable births of Sampson and Samuel accompany the story of the birth of John the Baptist and Jesus. They remind us that “nothing is impossible with God.” The prayers in Advent speak too of the gentle rain that makes the earth fertile and the numerous “miracles” found in the ordinary course of nature. From the created world we can gain a sense of wonder for this great wonder of God.

Our readings are stories of belief and doubt. Isaiah offers King Ahaz, the consummate doubter and cold calculator on December 20. He was mentioned on Wednesday mornings at morning prayer each week of Advent. Ahaz stands in contrast to Mary, who believes and accepts the angel’s promise. She wonders “how can this be?” before this mystery of God, but she believes.