The associated reading for this reflection can be found in your Every Sacred Sunday Mass journal or online here.
In today’s First Reading, we see The Lord is asking Ahaz to be bold when asking for a sign, “Let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky!” (Isaiah 7:10). However, even after the Lord Himself prompted Ahaz to ask Him for a sign, Ahaz still refused, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the Lord!” (Isaiah 7:11). There have been many times where I’ve been afraid to ask for the Lord’s guidance or providence in certain matters, due to my fear of being disappointed and getting my hopes up. I would tend to belittle my intentions, assuming that they would be too vast for Him.
Despite Ahaz’s attitude towards God’s prompting, Isaiah’s prophecy reveals that God remains faithful. The promise remains true, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). The birth of Jesus is a tangible sign of God’s fidelity. We don’t need to be fearful of asking big things of our Father. We don’t need to minimize our intentions or act like they’re not important. The same God that gave the promise of a Messiah, is the same God that is actively working in our lives right now. Even in our doubt, the Lord is still faithful to His promises.
As we journey closer to the celebration of Christ’s birth, let us receive the gift of God’s faithfulness to us, and be reminded of His greatness. That nothing is impossible for Him. We can come to our loving Father and be honest about our fears and doubts but may allow Him to reveal to us His everlasting fidelity, through the gift of His Son, Jesus.
Take some time today and reflect on the name Emmanuel, “God with us.” What does this name mean to you, personally? How do you want Him to be with you this week? Share your heart with Him.
Bella Rol is a college student from Monterey CA. She is passionate about finding the Lord in the simple things. Bella can be found journaling, doodling, taking a long walk, or asking Saint Joseph for his intercession.
