19th December, Saturday
I. Judg 13:2-7, 24-25a
II. Lk 1:5-25
Theme: Nothing is impossible for God.
God separates every person for his main goal. Today, both the readings, talk about the imagining and bringing forth a child. Both the birth of Samson and John the Baptist were born when their parents had practically given up hope of having a child. Perhaps God delayed their birth so that the parents could be made ready to bring them up according to His wish; because God had a special mission planned for both boys. Samson was chosen to be consecrated to God from the womb to his death and the Spirit of the Lord stirred in him.
On the other hand, the gospel reinforces how truly precious the creation of life is and the joy that comes to parents when they are first made aware that they are with child. The news of John's birth was met with doubt and fear by his father Zechariah. He was unable to receive the coming Gift of God at first. Instead of being able to enjoy the growing child, he was struck dumb.
The common element in both the readings is the power of God and His Kindness working in the persons who are discarded and looked down upon by the society. But the Lord showed his kindness and took away their shame and troubles and gave meaning to their life. Advent offers an annual time to reflect on and pray with those negative thoughts and feelings that are preventing our hearts from welcoming the Spirit of Jesus, to see Him in ourselves and others. Let us pray together for courage to be opened enough and wait patiently for the gifts that the Spirit is longing to share. let us keep our focus not only on the power of prayer but on the miracle of creation.
Bro. Ruban
II BTH