Fourth Sunday of Advent (B)
Q. 663: King David and the virgin Mary are admirable people. Which is the better model for us to emulate? (Return to INDEX page of "Didja Know?" series)
December 18, 2011
A. 663: Our combined readings today from 2 Samuel 7:1-16~ and Luke 1:26-38 provide us with insights into two things. First, we see examples of a desire to serve God, which is perfectly normal for true disciples. Secondly, however, we see a contrast in approaches to humility and obedience. It is this second area that causes human beings the most difficulty.
King David was a sincere man. He truly recognized that his military and political victories were only because God had blessed him in a special way. So after he was secure and in control of the political arena (having united the divided northern and southern tribes), he decides to build a fitting temple for his Godone to replace the portable lodging for the Ark of the Covenant. Even the court prophet, Nathan, agreed with him. However, they neglected one thing: they both forgot to discern Gods will in this matter. Surprise! God is going to build a house for David! He is the one in control, not David! And Gods house would last forever, because it was from Davids line or house that the Messiah would eventually come. David was obedient and humble to this word of God, even though it did come after being corrected.
In our gospel story we see a different approach. Mary starts out being humble and open to Gods presence and activity in her life. When given the surprise news (as an unmarried virgin) that she would be the mother of this expected son of Davidand more, the Son of Godshe immediately said Yes. Her habitual obedience to God in everyday life enabled her to discern properly that this was a word from God, and she accepted it in all humility.
Mary is the perfect model for us. She invites us to surrender our wills to God daily, like she did; it is the obedience of faith. Ask the Holy Spirit to transform you into the image of her Son.
KNOW YOUR CATECHISM! The knot of Eves disobedience in the garden of Paradise was untied in Nazareth by Marys obedience to and faith in Gods word (see CCC 494). Mary embodies the perfection of the obedience of faith (CCC 148).
Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha
(Go back to Deacon Paul's HOME PAGE)