20 December 2014
Saturday of the Third Week of Advent
Both Ahaz and Mary show a complete trust in God. Ahaz is quick to point out, despite being asked for a sign, he does not wish to tempt the Lord (Isaiah 7:12). While not asking for a sign, YHWH points to something that is only possible through the power of God, a virgin having no relations with a man, will conceive and bear a son. This sign is easily evident, when the messenger tells the Virgin Mary she will conceive and bear a son because she has found favor with God. Despite her initial hesitation (1:29, 34), her final response to be the “handmaid of the Lord,” (Luke 1:38) would forever change human history. As we enter into the Fourth Week of Advent, let us be willing to place complete trust in God, even when the future seems uncertain.