He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High.

As Advent approaches its joyful climax, today’s liturgy invites us to contemplate the mystery of God’s promise and its fulfillment in an unexpected and humble way. The theme, “He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,” reveals both the divine identity of Jesus and the paradox of how God chooses to act in human history. In the first reading from Isaiah, King Ahaz is invited by God to ask for a sign. His refusal exposes a heart hesitant to trust fully in God’s saving power. Yet, God does not withdraw the promise. Instead, He freely offers a sign that surpasses human expectation: “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” This prophecy proclaims a God who remains faithful even when human faith is weak. Emmanuel— “God with us”—assures Israel, and all humanity, that God enters our fear and uncertainty with saving presence. Psalm 24 deepens this call to readiness by asking who is worthy to stand in the presence of the Lord. The psalm points not to power or privilege, but to purity of heart and sincerity of life. Advent, therefore, is a season of interior preparation, inviting us to open our hearts so that the Lord may truly enter. The Gospel of Luke presents the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in the Annunciation. The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit and bear a son who will reign forever. Though Mary is troubled, she listens, reflects, and ultimately trusts. Her question, “How can this be?” expresses honest wonder rather than doubt. When assured that nothing is impossible for God, Mary responds with complete surrender: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” Mary’s “yes” becomes the doorway through which the Son of the Most High enters the world. In contrast to Ahaz’s reluctance, her faith allows God’s promise to take flesh. As we draw closer to Christmas, today’s readings challenge us to imitate Mary’s openness and trust. Christ desires to be born not only in Bethlehem, but in our hearts—if only we allow God’s word to take root and transform us.