Ahaz was an evil and unfaithful king, but despite his failures, he received a prophecy - through a virgin who would give birth to a son who was to be named Immanuel, meaning "God with us." The name Immanuel signifies that even during difficult and uncertain times, God is present with His people and will provide salvation.

Today we celebrate the angel Gabriel's announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and bear the Son of God. It commemorates Mary's "Yes" to God's will, and is a significant feast that signifies the beginning of God's plan of salvation for humanity. We can imagine that her "Yes" would not have come easily - she was deeply disturbed, probably left to wonder about the many questions that could arise in her mind, for example, how could she conceive when she was a virgin, and being engaged to Joseph, what would he think of her, etc? But she was courageous and filled with faith in God - her "Yes" remains "Yes" despite those disturbing emotions and curious questions.

Perhaps today we too can emulate the faith and humility of Mary in our life. We might not know the exact plans that God has for us; but going step by step, day by day, with proper discernment and trust in the Lord, our life too shall reflect the will of God, as we say "Here I am Lord, I come to do your will."