Searching for a Sign

In today's reading from the Prophet Isaiah, we hear him tell the young king Ahaz to ask for a sign from God, "as deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky." (Is 7:10).  Evidently God had set no limits to the sign, but Ahaz refused, not wanting to tempt his God.  The sign was given: the young maiden (presumably his wife) would conceive and bear a son whose name would be Emmanuel. (Is 7: 14)
In the light of Gabriel's invitation and explanation to Mary, this prophecy was truly fulfilled in her miraculous conception of a child, a boy, to be named Jesus (Yahweh saves). 
How appropriate it is so close to Christmas itself to look back and see again how this plan came to completion.  Again we see the wisdom and care of God, who is with us and for us, and who reminds us to trust and not to be afraid.  Luke tells us that Mary was greatly troubled by Gabriel's message, rightly so, but Gabriel, sensing her concern told her, "Do not be afraid." (Lk 1:30)
At this point in Advent, we too have many concerns, and questions about being ready for Christmas, both spiritually and materially, for Advent has been shorter that usual, and our lives, busier.  We need not search  for a sign:  it has already been given.  Let us be at peace as we proceed in these final days; let us fear not, calm our anxieties and repeat "All Shall Be Well."
Bro. Rene