Isaiah 7:1-9 / Matthew 11:20-24
It is easier to believe in things we can see and know, rather than to believe in what cannot be seen and difficult to believe.
What our senses can perceive, we are able to make an assessment and judgement.
But if our senses cannot perceive, then our knowledge is limited and uncertain.
In the first reading, the two kings of Aram and Israel joined forces to lay siege on Jerusalem.
When the news reached Jerusalem, the heart of the king and the hearts of the people shuddered as the trees shudder in front of the wind.
They shuddered because of the imminent danger at the gates, and if the walls of the city are breached, it will be a tragedy and a disaster.
But the hearts of the king and the people shuddered because their hearts had swayed away from the Lord.
Still, the Lord did not abandon His people to the enemy and sent the prophet Isaiah to calm the heart of king Ahaz and not to fear.
The Lord will protect Jerusalem. But the Lord also gave this warning:
“If you do not stand by me, you will not stand at all”.
In the gospel, Jesus also warned the towns of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum.
Those town are now in ruins because they rather believed in their power and wealth than in the message of repentance.
Let us heed the message of repentance and stand by the Lord.
When we stand by the Lord with faith, He will protect us and fight our battles for us.