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Judges 13:2-7, 24-25A
Psalm 71:3-4A, 5-6AB, 16-17
Luke 1:5-25
Summary
In today’s readings we hear of God’s blessings of
new life, for those who are open to listening and per-
severing in their faith. In the psalm, we sing to God
praise and glory for his rescuing power and his gifts.
The people in the readings are holding strong to the
Lord, for our hope lies in God whom we trust and de-
pend on.
Reflection
The blessing of life is beautiful, but it isn’t easy. Life teaches us discipline, care,
and love. I remember walking down the memorials in Auschwitz, keeping in mind
with prayer what went on in such a place. The next day, my cousin got married
and I reflected especially on life and death—life in my cousin’s marriage, and
death when remembering the dearly departed in this memorial. In moments of
harsh reality, we must be hopeful and not give up. God is our rescuer and will
free us in the midst of death or emptiness. Our Lord will produce life, and we
read one example of this with Zorah and Elizabeth. In those moments of despair
and depression, he will fill our mouths with praise, so that we may sing of his
glory! St. Maximilian Kolbe led some of the prisoners in song while they were im-
prisoned in Auschwitz. As we reflect, let’s keep in mind our call to be holy. Let us
spread God’s faith, hope and love, for he gives us an abundance of life. When
the word of God goes forth, it gives us direction that might convict us at times, or
leave us speechless. Zechariah learned that the hard way. Our God doesn't just
do it for laughs and giggles, although, we might
be blessed at times to feel his loving Holy Spirit
and giggle. Also, let’s keep in mind our journey
as a community of beloved disciples with God
and how we might have noticed his humor in our
day-to-day lives. Keep in mind the platy-