Saturday, December 19, 2020 - Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 1, 5-25 - Come, Branch of Jesse, standard set up in the sight of the Gentiles! Deliver us, do not delay any longer.

If the Gospel turned us towards Joseph yesterday, today let us look at Zechariah. Zechariah? A man who was righteous before God and who was already of old age. Unfortunately, he did not have children with his wife Elizabeth; this can happen in life, although they are good people. It is very difficult for a legitimate couple not to have children; especially when society starts talking about it and making fun of it.

Zechariah implored God fervently but eventually lost hope, no longer believing in the possibility of having children. He wanted to receive a sign to confirm the angel's words. You will be mute, the angel said to him. He became so mute in response to his disbelief. Not believing in the power of the Word of God, he himself lost the use of the word.

Zechariah did not expect the response to his unbelief to be so harsh. He is not to blame! Fortunately, he accepted the sign given to him even though it was a burden to him. He received the proof he was looking for and the joy of having a child filled his heart. God always leads us in the right direction, if we really trust Him, because He already knows the details of our life and only He can fill in the gaps.

Brothers and sisters, it is not in the nature of God the Creator to test us, but faith unless it is tested cannot mature, says the apostle James. It may even cost us our lives, but we must sacrifice and persevere if we are to receive God's blessings.

There is no problem without a solution in our lives as long as we are with You, our God who takes care of us. So may we always trust You and strengthen our faith, according to the words of faith of Saint Teresa of Avila: "God alone is enough for our lives". Amen!