HOMILY for the Fourth Sunday of Advent –Cycle A
The beloved Advent hymn O Come, O Come Emmanuel is a musical rendering of the Greater Advent Antiphons, also called the “O” Antiphons based on the initial letter of each. They are sung at the Magnificat during Vespers (Evening Prayer) from December 17th through December 23rd.
These verses are a heart-rending plea for the Messiah to appear and save His people. They address Him by the titles He is given in Sacred Scripture and encapsulate the profound longing of God’s people for their Savior.
December 17 – O Sapientia (Wisdom)
O Wisdom, that comest out of the mouth of the Most High, that reachest from one end to another, and orderest all things mightily and sweetly, come to teach us the way of prudence!
December 18 – O Adonai (Lord)
O Adonai, and Ruler of the house of Israel, Who didst appear unto Moses in the burning bush, and gavest him the law in Sinai, come to redeem us with an outstretched arm!