“Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.”
But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” Then he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isa. 7:11–14 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, what an extravagantly generous God you are. This Scripture highlights the magnificence of your love in contrast with our stubborn unbelief. Truly, Advent underscores your irrepressible, limitless, transforming grace.
This familiar passage tells the story of a time of crisis for Israel, and King Ahaz had every opportunity to repent and rely on you. You sent Isaiah with the promise of redemption. But he refused. Feigning piety, King Ahaz remained addicted to his illusion of control and competence.
We lament how much we can be like King Ahaz. We truly love you, but when life is hard, or you run late, we get impatient. Our fears, unbelief, and “resourcefulness” take over. That never ends well. Father, we grieve our lack of trust in you.
Thus, the promise of “Immanuel” in this passage is so precious to us. By sending Jesus—our Immanuel, you’ve proven yourself to be the God who isn’t only with us, but the God who is so very much for us.
Your love for us in the gospel isn’t just unconditional; it’s contra-conditional, for you’ve met every condition necessary to redeem us, rejoice in us, and renew us. You are our Father and we are your beloved children. You love and care for us as none other.
Hallelujah for mercy without measure and grace without limit; love beyond imagining and peace surpassing understanding. Such are the riches of the gospel.
In this current Advent season, we purpose to wait on you and trust in you. So very Amen we pray, in the trustworthy and triumphant name of Jesus
