Tuesday 24 December 2024
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel. (v. 14)
Background
This a fascinating passage about King Ahaz, a king of Judah, and the prophet Isaiah. King Ahaz had great challenges to overcome as he tried to lead the people. He faced great difficulties because of an alliance between two neighbouring nations who made an attack on Jerusalem. This attack is described in 2 Kings 16.
The threatened attack was ultimately unsuccessful, but the war against Judah greatly weakened all the warring nations and many hostages were taken, not all of whom were released when the conflict was over. As the armies of Israel and Syria approached Jerusalem, it looked like everything would be lost. Ahaz was challenged to trust in God when things were terrible and it looked like soon all would be lost.
Ahaz is, understandably, initially resistant to the invitation of God to ask for a sign or indication of hope that God would act or intervene to prevent disaster. Isaiah comes to the help of Ahaz. He tells the king that despite his reluctance or hesitation, God will indeed offer him a sign of hope and transformation. So Isaiah says to King Ahaz, in verse 14: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son and shall name him Immanuel.”
God’s sign of hope to King Ahaz is a surprising one. Ahaz is facing war and ongoing conflict with his neighbours. He might have been seeking support in a display of power and military force so that he can face his opponents boldly. In sharp contrast to this, God’s sign is that a baby will be born whose name will be Immanuel, meaning 'God is with us'.
The birth of this child is a constant reminder to give the people hope that they are not alone. God is with them and will bless them. It is a subtle but telling reminder that it is new life and not killing which invokes hope about the future.
To Ponder:
- Where can we find hope when our situation seems hopeless and we are in despair?
- Have you ever been given a sign of hope? How did you come to recognise it as a gift from God?
Bible notes author: The Revd Helen Cameron
Helen Cameron is a presbyter of the Methodist Church and currently serves as President of the Methodist Conference.