2 Sam 7:1-5,8b-12,14a,16; Ps 88(89):2-3, 4-5, 27, 29; Rom 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38
After seven years as King of Judah, David was anointed King of all the tribes of Israel. He then captured Jerusalem making it the capital of Israel. Then he increased his power by bringing into Jerusalem the Ark of the Covenant, the Lord’s dwelling. But in our first reading the Lord tells David not to build a house for Him, because the Lord will himself build a house – ie a dynasty – founded on David.
The long psalm, written during or after the exile, starts by reminding God of this promise to David, before asking God how long before He will fulfill His promise.
Paul summarises the Good News: Jesus Christ is the revelation that God intends all humanity to be brought into community with God through faith. We are not justified and saved by the Jewish Law, but by Jesus’ faith in his Father and by our faith in Jesus Christ.
Luke gives us the supreme example of faith: Mary agrees to God’s invitation to be the mother of God’s Son – the greatest ‘Yes’ in history! She does not know what might happen – except possibly death by stoning as an unmarried mother. By her faith and trust in God she becomes the first disciple. And God’s promise to David is fulfilled.
Psalm Response: I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.
(2 Sam 7:1-5,8b-12,14a,16; Ps 88(89):2-3, 4-5, 27, 29; Rom 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38)