Bible Class Break 

Home Study Notes 4th Week of Advent

Bible Class Notes PDF

Reminder: Whenever you are reading the Sacred Scriptures ensure that you read slowly and allow the Word to touch your heart. If a particular word or phrase stands out to you pause your reading and rest there, do not rush past it. The Holy Spirit may be speaking to you. Pray like Samuel and say, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” 1 Sam3:10

Readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent 

Old Testament Isaiah 
Isaiah 7:10-14 
Related texts are: Mt1:23

Romans 1:1-7 
Related texts are: 
Acts 9:15, Acts 13:2, 1 Cor 1:1,3, 2 Cor 1:1-2, Gal 1:15, Acts 26:16-18, Rom 15:18,
Gal2:7,9, Gal1:3, Eph1:2, Phil1:2, Col1:2, 1Thess1:2, 2Thess1:2, 1Tim1:2, 2Tim1:2,Tit1:4, Philem3, 2Jn3

The Gospel According to Matthew 1:18-24 
Related texts are: 
Lk1:26-38, Lk2:21, Jn1:29, Acts13:23, Is7:14

The theme for this week’s readings is love. The fourth candle lit on the Advent wreath is the “Angel’s” candle, and it is purple. As we reflect on this week’s readings God’s steadfast and unfailing Love comes through. Throughout salvation history God promised His people, through His holy prophets, that He had a plan, “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you...plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope.” 
Jer29:11. 

This is “the gospel of God” that St Paul refers to in the second reading. When the Angel Gabriel arrived to make his proclamation to Mary, the incomprehensible Love of God shone forth. The Father gave His beloved Son as a sacrificial gift for the people He Loves. The Son Lovingly submitted to the Father’s plan that He leave Heaven to o er Himself for our salvation. This immense Spirit of Love filled the Blessed Virgin Mary and she lovingly accepted her role as the Mother of Our Savior. Through this week’s readings we are encouraged to open ourselves to “Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.” (responsorial psalm) and to give Him our hearts, full of love and gratitude.

For those with Advent wreaths this is taken from dynamiccatholic.com;
Pray the Advent Wreath Prayer for Week 4: “Dear Jesus, may the light of your love always shine in our hearts.

As Christmas draws closer, we marvel at your great love for us. Let your love transform every aspect of our lives and touch everyone we encounter. Our hearts are open to you, Jesus. Amen.”
Reflect: What concerns, joys, worries, and prayers do you want to bring to Jesus this Christmas?