Homily Third Saturday of Advent (Lk. 1:5-25) “God Reads Hearts”
Homily Third Saturday of Advent (Lk. 1:5-25) “God Reads Hearts”
It is a pity that the story of birth of John the Baptist is read only at this time of the liturgical year every year. Because of that, it is a story that not many people are familiar with. But there is much to ruminate over here.
The story is recurring in Scripture. There are many miraculous birth stories in the Bible. Usually, they follow a familiar pattern. We have an older couple that have not had children. They pray fervently for a baby. God hears their prayer, and a child is born. But usually that child has a large role to play in salvation history, so it is with John the Baptist.
The most unique part about this story is the experience that Zechariah has. When the Angel Gabriel appears to him and announces John’s birth Zechariah asks the same question that Mary askes when she hears of Jesus’ impending birth. How can this be so? Mary is praised for her great faith. Zechariah seems to be punished because he doubted. Zechariah is struck dumb for nine months.
One thing that impresses us is that God can read Mary’s mind and God can read Zechariah’s mind. He knows Mary, in the depths of her heart, believes. God knows that Zechariah does not trust fully. We could say Zechariah needs to be quiet and reflect. When he does, he learns to put his faith in God’s plan.
Perhaps Zechariah was thinking to himself, “I am too old for this. By the time, this baby is eighteen I will be retired for ten years.” He wonders if he and Elizabeth will have the energy to raise John. But it all works out. John surely was a joy to his parents.
I have known many couples who feel like they have had their last child and low and behold there is what we would call a “tag along.” A child that is born well after their sisters and brothers. Many time that last child is the most gifted and most attentive to their parents. God’s ways are truly mysterious. Often what we think is a burden is a blessing.
Reflection Questions:
- What does God see when he looks in my heart? Does the Lord see trust or suspicion?
- Have I ever had a burden in my life that turned into a great blessing? What did that experience teach me?
Dear Parishioners,
Reservations for Christmas Masses are filling up. The 4 p.m. Mass Christmas Eve is full. The other four Masses still have spots available. I remind people once again that we will only allow those into the 4 p.m. who have reservations. We must keep people safe. We do not want to have a super spreader event.
I was talking to a man today whose son went to a wedding and the young people who were there did not take protocols seriously. Most of the people who attended ended up with COVID. We cannot let our guard down. It seems like numbers in our area are going in the right direction. Let’s continue to be diligent in our efforts.
Remember to go to our website to sign up for Christmas Masses so we can plan accordingly.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.
Fr. Mark