Isaiah 7: 10-14

Ahaz, threatened king of Judah, seeking security in human alliances, is given the promise of peace in a child. 

Romans 1: 1-7

Paul spells out in clear and certain language the essence of the Gospel – Jesus, risen fom the dead, is both God and man. 

Matthew 1: 18-24

The story of Mary and Joseph is told, and of the child born to them. 

Isaiah 35: 1-6. 10

Isaiah brings encouragement to a weary people and announces the coming of God, who will bring freedom from oppression, and healing to those in need. 

James 5: 7-10

James encourages the followers of Jesus to have patience and not to lose heart with one another or about the coming of the Lord. 

Matthew 11: 2-11

Jesus expresses his admiration for John, while his own actions reveal that he is the awaited one. 

Isaiah 11: 1-10

Isaiah foretells the coming of the Messiah, who will bring justice, peace and the knowledge of God. 

Romans 15: 4-9

Paul reflects on the sacred scriptures, and reminds us that they foretold that Christ would come to unite the Jews and Gentiles. 

Matthew 3: 1-12

As the divine Messiah is just about to begin his public ministry, John recalls the people to genuine repentance. 

Isaiah 2: 1-5

In Isaiah’s vision the nations of the world have an aim and a destiny, towards peace with each other and peace with God.  They will eventually beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into sickles 

Romans 13: 11-14

This is a call to be ready and to live decently, for salvation is near. 

Matthew 24: 37-44

Jesus warns us to stay awake and prepare because we never know when we will be called to meet him. 

2 Samuel 5: 1-3

The northern tribes, following the example of the tribes in the south, anoint David as their king. 

Colossians 1: 12-20

Christ has brought us into God’s kingdom by the shedding of his blood. 

Luke 23: 35-43

Jesus promises a place in the kingdom to the ‘good thief’.