Homily for Tuesday of the 4th Week of Advent
Theme: Joy
By: Fr. Francis Onwunali
Homily for Tuesday December 21 2021
As we come very close to the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the liturgy today presents to us the theme of JOY.
In the first reading (SG 2: 8-14), the Song of Songs presents to us the image of a lover’s encounter with her beloved. It is a moment of two joyful hearts meeting together. Such encounter rises above all obstacles like “leaping on the mountains and bouncing over the hills”. God Who is Love is calling us for an encounter that is transforming. Your share in the fruit of this encounter depends of your response.
The gospel (Luke 1: 39-45) account is the visitation of Mary to her elder cousin, Elizabeth. As soon as the Angel left her, Mary moved in haste to be with Elizabeth. Both women are filled with joy and inner peace as the Holy Spirit overshadows them. When God takes control of your life there is always a sense of peace and fulfilment.
Dear friends, this visitation of Mary elated Elizabeth, more so, with the gift of her presence. Being with someone who you can confidently confide in and share experiences can bring strength.
I pray as we journey in life today and increase our expectations in this Advent journey, we may realise that the greatest gift we can give is the giving of ourself- the willingness to be attentive to the other, as Mary was to Elizabeth. Do I think that my encounter with the “other” today will bring the “other”, JOY? Be sensitive to the situation of those around you and be sure to bring joy to any soul as much as you can. May our hearts continue to ring out joy to the Lord for He alone is our help and shield. In His Holy Name we trust! (Ps. 33). Have a Joy-full day!
Fr. Francis Onwunali