3rd Week of Advent : Friday 18th December 2020

The prophecy in the first reading concerns the future Son of Man, the ideal king who is described as a “virtuous Branch for David.” In contrast to the kings of Israel who ruled irresponsibly, the “true king” will reign and govern wisely and with integrity. The prophecy gives rise to the messianic hope of Israel in the centuries that followed. and was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus Christ.

The Gospel passage demonstrates Jesus’ right to a place in the messianic genealogy through Joseph. He accepts responsibility to become Jesus’ foster father. Besides, the angel’s message mentions two names attributed to the child. Firstly, his given name is “Jesus” which is related to the Hebrew verb “save.” And secondly, “they shall name him Emmanuel”, which in Hebrew means, “God is with us.”

Therefore, the Gospel passage serves to situate Jesus firmly within God’s people and also to call to attention to his special status. He is the descendent of Abraham and David and the fulfilment of the promises and hopes attached to Old Testament, and at the same time, the names given to him suggest that he far surpasses any of his ancestors.

Indeed, our Saviour has come, and He is with us. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus anew at Christmas, like Joseph, we too have to decide. Either we take greater responsibility to accept Jesus fully as our Lord, and live according to his Word, or allow his coming to pass us by without any impact on our lives.

Lord, come and reign in my life.