In this reflection, theologian Michael Waldstein addresses the special speech of the Archangel Gabriel – and the child born “in a holy way” who will be called the Son of God.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Michael Waldstein
4th Advent
Luke 1:26-38
You will conceive and give birth to a child
Reflection on the Sunday Gospel in the video
From the Holy Gospel according to Luke.
At that time the angel became Gabriel
of God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth
sent to a virgin.
She was engaged to a man named Joseph,
which came from the house of David.
The virgin's name was Mary.
The angel came to her
and said: Greetings, blessed,
The Lord is with you.
She was shocked by the address
and I wondered what this greeting meant.
Then the angel said to her: “Mary, do not be afraid;
for you have found favor with God.
Behold, you will conceive
and you will have a son;
you should name him Jesus.
He will be big
and be called Son of the Most High.
The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David.
He will rule the house of Jacob forever
and his reign will have no end.
Mary said to the angel:
How will this happen since I don't recognize a man?
The angel answered him:
Holy Spirit will come upon you
and the power of the Most High will overshadow him.
Therefore the child also becomes a saint
and be called Son of God.
Behold, also Elizabeth, your relative,
conceived a son in old age;
although she is considered sterile,
She is already in her sixth month.
Because nothing is impossible for God.
Then Mary said:
Behold, I am the servant of the Lord;
Do with me as you said.
Then the angel left her.
We wish with all our hearts a happy and gracious celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Vatican Radio – Claudia Kaminski)