In the first reading, we read how the prophet Isaiah visits Ahaz, the king of Judah and asks the king to seek a sign from God. The sign was to help Ahaz, whose kingdom was facing the threat of foreign invasion, discover that he had to do nothing but remain calm. God will take care of his enemies. Ahaz fails to understand what Isaiah was trying to convey because he had a plan of his own. Later, Ahaz sends gold and silver to the king of Assyria, seeking his help. Eventually, it is Assyria who, one day, would capture and destroy Judah.

In contrast, is the young virgin named Mary. She receives a visit from an angel. She becomes initially anxious about what the angel has to say, but then understands that the angel's message comes from God. Immediately, she empties herself of her own plans, opinions or anxiety, and submits herself totally to God. In time, it is through her that Jesus, the Saviour of the world, is born.

As we journey through the Season of Lent, we have to ask whether we are allowing our positions, possessions or personal opinions or anxieties to prevent us from listening to God. Or have we become full of ourselves that we often fail to understand what God is saying to us? Lent is a time set aside by the Church for us to empty ourselves so that we may renew our relationship with God. Hopefully, you are using this time wisely.