On the last Sunday of Advent this year, our Gospel gives us a glimpse into Joseph’s mind and heart, and the life-changing decision he must make. Honour in his time is a huge part of life, and in order to maintain honour after finding out his betrothed is already pregnant, Joseph must act quickly. No matter what he decides, it is likely going to involve serious complications for everyone involved. Believing the angel and obeying God’s command comes with serious risks, and Joseph chooses to take a risk and trust God.
But there is another life-altering decision in this week’s readings. The prophet tells Ahaz to ask for a sign from God, which he knows (under normal circumstances) is a sin – he even quotes the Scripture that warns against doing so. And yet, he is chastised for it – why? Because the request comes directly from God, through the mouth of the prophet. Ahaz is paying more attention to the letter of the law than he is to its source.
In both situations, Joseph and Ahaz are asked to do something unexpected; they are invited to trust that God is the source and the goal. Perhaps these two readings give us a chance to reflect on how sometimes the things we offer to God in worship and obedience can also become a barrier when they replace loving relationship with, and faithfulness to, the God we serve. All of the worship, music and beauty we offer as a sacrifice to our God is worthless if our hearts are not also being offered. May we commit ever more fully to true worship – the offering of ourselves, our souls and bodies – this season and in the year to come. And may we recognize and respond to the voice of our Saviour when he comes.
Mother Amanda