There are four sets of readings for Christmas. This is based upon “At the Vigil Mass”.
How many of us have struggled with an important decision? How many of us have asked God to guide us? How many of us were still unsure and asked God for a sign, so we would know His will for us? If we didn’t like the sign. did we then say two out of three? Ahaz, as worried as he was, decided it was better to not tempt the LORD. He had good reason, remember Saul was unwilling to trust in God and paid the price? The world is full of uncertainty and in many cases, even with prayer, fasting and almsgiving, we may not have all the answers we desire. When we do discern, are we paying attention to what God has told us? Do we freeze in our tracks and refuse to budge? Do we second guess ourselves and turn back? Do we move forward anyway? It is not easy when the going gets tough to question a well discerned decision.
The prophet proclaims he will not be silent. God desires to relate with his people as intimately as a husband his spouse. Paul provides a synopsis of salvation history, emphasizing that Jesus is the capstone of such. The Gospel brings out this question to the point of, how do we respond to God’s call in our lives. Joseph is invited to respond, to commit himself to Jesus. First John, who prepared the way. Then Mary who accepted her call. Now Joseph. All three were willing to sacrifice themselves for the call God gave them. What sacrifices are we willing to make to respond to God’s call, or are we Christians of convenience?
Countenance of God 