Martin Madalai Muthu csc –
Readings: Judg 13:2-7, 24-25; Lk 1:5-25
The bible narratives on ‘barren women’ are too frequent to go unnoticed. The mothers of Isaac, Jacob, Samson and Samuel were considered to be barren. The point is that everything that happens is according to the plan of God.
Today’s first reading narrates the birth story of Samson and in the Gospel the birth of John the Baptist is presented. Zechariah and Elizabeth were not expecting these amazing things to happen to them; they were simply ordinary pious Jews living according to the Law. Zechariah had been chosen by lot from hundreds of available priests, to offer incense for the Jewish nation.
I am sure his childlessness, the great grief of his life, would have been in his mind as he prayed. These two birth narratives are given today as a preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. Further, these birth narratives help us to understand that the New Testament is birthed from the faithful soil of the Old Testament. Further, through this narration Luke is showing us the power of prayer.
God hears the prayers of the faithful: “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer…” 1 Peter 3:12. The story is also highlighting the importance of faithfulness as God sees Zechariah and Elizabeth’s faithfulness. Zechariah might not have had the greatest faith, but he was faithful. It reminds me of what Paul says to us in Galatians: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up (Gal 6:9). If we do the ordinary stuff with faith and an eye to God’s Kingdom and glory, God will do the extraordinary. The invitation for us is to keep the Kingdom of God always in mind when we pray. We need to get a Kingdom vision. If you are praying for health, weave that to God’s Kingdom.
God, I am asking for healing and strength so that I can use that strength to glorify your name, to serve your people, and praise your name. Because Jesus said when you put God’s kingdom first, God will take care of your needs.