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4th SUNDAY IN ADVENT
Here are the lessons for the fourth Sunday in Advent with a thumbnail sketch
of their context.
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16-A House/Temple/Palace/Dwelling/Dynasty
This chapter is the most important theological text in the books of Samuel and perhaps
in the entire Deuteronomistic History. With the kingdom secure and his own house (palace)
built, David wants to build a house (temple) for the Lord. "Go for it!" is
Nathan’s knee-jerk response. But later the prophet gets word from God to reign David
in. Instead of building God a palace, God promises a house for David-"I will build
you a house (dynasty)." Verse 16 sums up the Davidic covenant: "Your house and
your kingdom shall be made sure . . . your throne shall be established forever."
Psalm 89-[ In conjunction with 2 Samuel 7 ]
This psalm should be read with 2 Samuel 7 in mind. Psalm 89:1-2, for example, recalls
God’s faithfulness and unfailing love to all generations. Immediately following this
thanksgiving the writer recalls the Davidic covenant, "I have made a covenant . . . I
have sworn to my servant David: ‘I will build your throne for all generations.’
" Verses 19-26 flesh just such a vision out.
Romans 16:25-27-To God Be the Glory
Whether appended by later redactors or scribes this closing doxology to the book of
Romans is magnificent. The ending seems a fitting summary and closure to the
epistle’s beginning in 1:1-6; thus final words end in doxology with a
Christmas/Advent flourish. The instrumental part of this closing concludes with the
closeness of Father and Son at the center of all: "Through Jesus Christ, the one in
whom God is glorified and through whom God’s purposes are made known."
Luke 1:26-38-The Annunciation
In the ancient tradition of Sarah, Mary hears the words of promise through an
intermediary of God-nothing shall be impossible with God (Gen. 18:14, Lk. 1:37). Notice
the responses that come with annunciation stories-surprise, fear, reassurance, the
announcement of a birth, the naming of the child, perhaps a presaging of a specific task
this child will grow up to perform, further objections, additional reassurances, a word or
sign, and acquiescence. This child, Gabriel says, will be great . . . and will inherit the
throne of David and will thus, fulfill all earlier hopes and promises.
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