Day Eighteen
Third Sunday in Advent
Rev. Lynne M. Morrow
Pastor Messiah Lutheran Church
Chicago, Illinois
Psalm 146.5-10
Or
Luke 1.46b-55
James 5.7-10
Matthew 11.2-11
Zechariah had been silenced by God for the months leading up to the birth of his only son, John the Baptist. As an aged father-to-be, Zechariah found great joy in the anticipation of their child; however, was unable to speak until after the child had been named “John”, as God’s messenger had directed. These beautiful verses are spoken when Zechariah was filled with the abundant love of the Holy Spirit and offer loving praises to God, the One whom offers hope to a silent and dark world. The hope that only God, the Creator, who loves us unconditionally, is able to offer to each and every one of us in the covenant made with Abraham.
The challenge of losing one’s ability to speak is not limited to Zechariah in the biblical times. Even with all the technology that exists today, many people in this time have lost their ability to communicate with others. Perhaps it has become uncomfortable to talk with or be with other people; maybe there are physical reasons for not being able to speak. When the desire to speak and share with friends and family ceases to be present, it may feel like one is in the darkness. And, yet, there may be a glimmer of hope, of being able to reach out to one person, the one whom brings love and compassion.
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Gracious God, when we think there’s no light in our world, you shine in our darkness and rescue us from the dark despair of meaningless living. You have offered us the promise of hope and purpose. Guide us in our daily walk to praise you and live in the light of your love, Jesus Christ. Amen.
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