The birth of John the Baptist, foretold - Luke 1:5-25
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
Yes, I know Zechariah and Elizabeth. They are really good people. When anyone is in need, they are the first to offer assistance. They are regular attendees at the temple services, and I know they pray constantly to the God of Abraham, Moses and David. I know I can confide in them freely and without fear.
I know, too, the pain they carry in that they have no children. People point at them and wonder what they have done to stop God blessing them with offspring. It is a deep sorrow in their lives. So I was overjoyed when I heard Zechariah’s account of what happened to him in the Temple that day…
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Do I blame God for the difficult things in my life?
· Some would say, “God isn’t fair.” How do I react to such a statement?
· When have I put interpretations on someone’s actions or words?
· When have I been judged falsely by others?
· Do I take a negative or positive attitude towards life situations?
· How can I support the marginalised people in my life?
Prayer
Lord, you know what it was like to be marginalised in your own home town. When I feel rejected or humiliated, help me to remember that you are always with me. Thank you. Amen.
The narrative
At the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside.
“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· How often do I pray for the needs of the world, (conflicts, natural disasters, local issues)?
· How often do I thank God for the good I hear of or experience?
An angel of the Lord appeared to Zechariah, and he was terrified. But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid. Your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will call him John.
· The future is in God’s hands. New life comes through God’s creative power.
· At creation, God told Adam to name the animals. Here, God names John.
· I am called to work with God, not in isolation from him. If the work is to flourish, it needs the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
· How can I respond to God’s call in the daily events of my life?
The angel speaks of John’s life and ministry. Even before his birth, the Holy Spirit will be with him and will enable him to influence many in Israel.
Zechariah doubted the angel and became mute. The people realised that something extraordinary had happened to him in the sanctuary.
After his time of service, Zechariah returned home, still unable to speak.
· Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, life to the full.”
· Do I trust God to bring peace out of conflict, calm after storm?
· Do I trust God that good will prevail?
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I carry the incense for Zechariah. The inner sanctum is dimly lit, and there is a deep calm here. Zechariah begins to incense the altar. Suddenly I sense another presence, a presence that escapes the senses, yet captivates the heart and mind. This is something beyond human understanding, awful rather than fearful. Who am I to be here at this moment? Zechariah looks terrified. But the presence (an angel of the Lord?) calms him.
His message is beyond belief. Zechariah is to father a son, a prophet who will go before the Messiah, bringing hope and courage to the downtrodden people.
My head is tingling with the shock of this presence and this message. Then I hear Zechariah speak. He sounds incredulous. How could this happen to him? Oh, Zechariah, trust him! Listen to God’s word!
But it is too late! The angel seems angry and has cursed Zechariah’s tongue! He won’t be able to speak for the next nine months, until all of these promises are put in place.
Then the angel leaves as quietly as he came. I look at Zechariah, He is struggling to speak, but finds he cannot. He grasps my hand, and we go out together to meet the waiting crowd.
I tell them what I know, and silence falls on the crowd. What has happened to us? What has happened to Zechariah? Only in God’s time will we know!
What is God saying to you in this scripture passage?