4th Sunday of Advent – Theme of Love
Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 24:1-6; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-24
Dear Beloved Parish Family,
As we enter this Fourth Sunday of Advent, my heart is filled with joy and gratitude for each of you. This week’s theme is Love, and what a beautiful gift to reflect on as we draw closer to Christmas. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” This is the love that comes to dwell in our world and in our homes.
The readings this Sunday point us to the ways God’s love takes root in our lives:
In Isaiah 7, God promises a sign—the birth of Emmanuel, “God with us”—reminding us that His love is present and personal.
Psalm 24 calls us to open the gates of our hearts to the King of Glory, welcoming His love into our daily lives.
Romans 1 speaks of the Gospel spreading God’s grace and peace, a love that reaches through all generations.
In Matthew 1, Joseph quietly and faithfully embraces God’s plan, showing us that love often appears in humble acts of trust, care, and protection.
During this Advent season, I invite you to make love the center of your home. Cherish your family, strengthen the bonds around your table, and take time to express gratitude and affection to those closest to you. At the same time, let this love extend beyond your home into our community. A visit to a lonely neighbor, a warm meal for someone in need, or a word of encouragement to a struggling friend can become a light of Christ’s love in the world.
Reflective Questions:
1. How can my family make space to show Christ’s love to one another this week?
2. Who in our community can experience God’s love through my acts of kindness?
How can our home be a reflection of Emmanuel—God with us—this Christmas?
May this Advent season fill your hearts and homes with the love that only Christ can bring. Know that I am praying for each of you and your families in these final days before Christmas.
With love in Christ,
Fr. Sunil Pallela