Posted by The WORD in other words (2023) by Fr Sony de Rivera SVD – Rome
December 23 – Advent
Do we have a bit of Elizabeth, or do we have the Zechariah factor?
“In some African cultures, whenever a man or woman meets another person walking toward them, they shout out in a friendly voice, “Do you see me?” It’s a way to say that I see you and value you as a person.
In this Gospel, we read, “All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, ‘What, then, will this child be?'” For indeed, the hand of the Lord was with him. The neighbors that form part of the community of Elizabeth and Zechariah have seen John and valued him with this unusual and specially chosen name. Therefore, as they ponder what this child will be, they also see the hand of the Lord upon this child.
Today’s Gospel reminds us of the importance of recognizing the potential in every woman, man, and child we serve. Where others throw in the towel because of illness, hunger, or miserable conditions of extreme poverty, we are called to say to them, “I see you, and I value you as a person.” All human beings deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and love.
The arrival of John has been a source of joy. So, for Elizabeth to name her son “John” was significant. It showed her recognition of God’s great plan for the child. She believed in the role of John in the pursuit of salvation. Zechariah, who doubted God, was muted. He got his speech back only after accepting God’s plan and allowing his newborn son named John.
Do we have the Elizabeth factor who recognizes God’s plans and faithfully opens herself to his promptings? Or do we have a bit of Zechariah and resist God until we have nowhere to go but him?
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