Christ is nearly here! Just a few more days and our arms shall be filled with the Christ child. In today’s reading, we hear of Jesus’s first encounter with humankind. While carrying Jesus in her womb, Mary journeys to the outskirts of Jerusalem, to the hill country of Judah. In the Old Testament, the ark of the covenant—the most holy and powerful object in Israel—traveled through this very hill country on its way to Jerusalem. In fact, it stayed there for three months (2 Samuel 6:11), just as Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three months (Luke 1:56).
Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant. The first ark carried holy items that were integral to God’s covenant with Israel. Mary, the new Ark, carries Jesus Himself, the mediator of the New Covenant within her.
Even in the immaculate tabernacle of Mary’s womb, an encounter with Jesus is powerful. Notice how Elizabeth reacts to Mary, bearing the Christ within her. She was filled with the Holy Spirit and she cried out in rejoicing and wonder. John leapt for joy, like David dancing “with all his might” before the Lord in the ark (2 Samuel 6:14). This is the joy that Christ’s presence can bring when we truly believe in Him.
As Christmas draws near, let us bring this joyful, expectant attitude with us to each Mass. For Christ comes to us in the flesh in the Blessed Sacrament at every Mass. When we receive the Holy Eucharist, for a brief moment, we too become an ark of the covenant, for we carry Christ within us.
In these last few days before Christmas, consider taking time to worship the Real Presence of the Lord in the tabernacle. There He is hidden from view, but is truly present. May our hearts be filled with joyful anticipation as we prepare to receive our Lord at Christmas and at each and every Mass.
Jesus, may I encounter You through Mary, and may others encounter You through me.
Readings for December 19, 2021, the Fourth Sunday of Advent
- Micah 5:1-4
- Psalm 80:2-19
- Hebrews 10:5-10
- Luke 1:39-45