GOD-WITH-US: THE MYSTERY AT THE HEART OF ADVENT
Homily for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year A Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, Isch Isaiah 7:10-14; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-24 As we approach the final days of Advent, the liturgy draws our attention to a profound truth at the heart of Christian faith: God chooses to be with us. The readings of this Fourth Sunday of Advent converge around this mystery of Emmanuel, “God-with-us,” and they show us that God’s saving presence becomes visible in history through human faith and obedience. The First Reading (Isaiah 7:10-14) is set in a moment of political and spiritual crisis. King Ahaz of Judah is threatened by enemy forces and filled with fear. Through the prophet Isaiah, God invites him to ask for a sign - a gesture meant to strengthen his faith. Yet Ahaz refuses, not out of humility but out of distrust. Despite his lack of faith, God remains faithful. He gives a sign anyway: “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” This is already an important Advent lesson. God’s...
