In Persian folklore...
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In Persian folklore, a king has a request for his viziers. "I want something," he says, "that will make me happy when I am sad -- but will also make me sad when I am happy." The viziers think long and hard. Days later, the head vizier brings the king a small box. In the box is a small, plain ring. The king picks up the band. After a moment, he nods. As the viziers withdraw, the king contemplates the ring in his hand. On the band, the following words are inscribed: "This, too, shall pass." In Isaiah's reading today, Isaiah gives Ahaz a prophecy -- but he also tries to give Ahaz some perspective. Ahaz is concerned with a war between two nations. Isaiah reminds him that in God's plan, these two nations are of little consequence. Indeed, by the time this prophecy comes true, these nations will no longer be a threat to anyone.
