Homily For Thursday Third Week of Advent Year B, 21st December, 2023

Readings : Song of Songs 2:8-14 , Ps. 33, Luke: 1:39-45

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Emenike Onyia.

 

THE  JOY OF VISITATION

 

Every good news we hear has a way of activating the joys in our hearts and when this happens we necessarily want to share this joy with others. This is the case with the women in our Gospel passage today, who received favour from the Lord and decided to share their joy as they play their part in the saving plan of God.

 

For Mary having heard that her cousin Elizabeth, who at that time had been long barren had now conceived a child, she came and found out that what the Lord had revealed to her through the Angel Gabriel was indeed true, that her cousin Elizabeth had miraculously conceived in her old age. And herself, about to have a Child without any human relations but by the power of the Holy Spirit. These made Mary rejoice greatly, for it was truly a great and joyful moment which God had shown to all his people.

 

 

Thus, the psalmist today tells us to ring out our joy to the Lord, O you just; O sing him a song that is new for our Lord is coming to save us. Our beloved comes leaping upon the mountains as we heard in our first reading. Therefore, as we wake up this morning may the joy of the coming Lord fill our hearts with passion, love and ready to accomplish great things for the Lord and humanity. May the Lord give us the grace and skills to face the tasks of the day and help us to share our joy and favours with others just like Mary who shared her joy with Elizabeth. Also, through the joy we share, may others leap for joy just like the child in Elizabeth's womb.

 

Dear friends, it’s a few days to Christmas, and as we struggle with our daily tasks, may God grant us the wisdom, inspiration and skills that will enable us to accomplish great things today and always. let us be hopeful, joyful and patient. Fear not, be focused, be ready, be determined and do not delay in preparing, for the Lord is at hand.

 

LET US PRAY, Almighty God, as we anticipate the coming of your Son, may we be well disposed and prepared to embrace him with joy, who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen. Do have a fruitful and peaceful day.