DAILY HOMILIES #Elizabeth

Wipe your tears and tell yourself the truth. You are not the only one who has enemies. You are not the centre of the universe. Repent of your sins first, then leave everything to God. Jesus told us to seek first His kingdom, and everything will be added to us. (cf. Matthew 6:33). Your challenges are never an excuse for living recklessly. Be like Peter, Andrew, James and John in today’s Gospel passage. When Jesus called them, they didn’t consider what they were about to lose; they believed what Jesus offered was of greater value. Put God first; live out your baptismal vows and trust that God has something great ahead for you.

Zechariah’s obedience to God’s instruction restored his ability to speak. When we obey God, we permit Him to carry out His will in our lives. Often, we behave as though we know better than God, only to find ourselves in a dead end like Jonah. If we persist in our sinfulness, we can never achieve all that God has planned for us.

Dear friends, let us examine our hearts. Are there promises you made to God when things were tough for you, yet long after God heard your prayer, you refused to fulfil your part? Do you even remember God when things are going well for you? Are you currently facing a storm? Don’t worry; storms do not last forever. Keep telling yourself, “This too shall pass.” Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.

Zechariah prayed for many years for a child and did not get an answer. When the answer came, Zachariah forgot what he had been praying for. He felt that God had decided not to grant him any child. His doubt was evident to the Angel. What is it that I have been praying for? Have I reached a point of doubt? This reading should give me a rethink. God knows what He is doing.

Just because you are unhappy with many aspects of your life doesn’t mean God hasn’t helped you. The fact that not all your prayers are answered doesn’t imply that God is weak or no longer exists. Look around you; God is still performing great and mighty works for many. Maybe it’s not yet your turn, or perhaps your problems are blessings in disguise; whatever the case, don’t lose hope in God.

The people wondered: “What will this child turn out to be?” This is the same question we should ask when life forms in the womb. You do not know what that baby will become tomorrow. If you are planning to abort an unborn baby, make sure you seek permission from the baby first, and make sure you also check the baby’s future.

Learn from Mary’s visit – look beyond your challenges and difficulties. Place ourselves in others’ shoes and visit them. Talk to them before talking about them (avoid gossip that damages others’ reputations). Mary is a mother who understands. Elizabeth did not ask Mary to come over. Upon hearing about Elizabeth’s situation, Mary immediately ran to her aid.

Christmas is a time of visitation. As God visited us, we are called to visit (bring glad tidings) to one another this season. Again, as God came to redeem us, we are called to redeem (assist, support, encourage, rescue, forgive) those who are down. As much as there are so many parties and celebrations during this period, let us not forget that many are lonely, sad, hungry, sick, and hopeless. Some are even mourning their loved ones. Celebrate Christmas by spreading love, joy and hope.

Zachariah was given a writing tablet to name his child. His relatives wanted him to name the child Zechariah. However, his silence helped him remember the Angel’s words: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer, has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.” (Luke 1:13-14).

What is my attitude to the sick and the old? When was the last time I visited my aged parents or relatives? Am I the type who only helps people when asked, or do I put myself in the shoes of those in need like Mary? During this season of Christmas, one virtue we must learn to cultivate is kindness. God was so kind to us in sending us His Son, Jesus Christ; Mary was kind to Elizabeth by going to visit and help her. Your Christmas will not be complete if you fail to be kind to your fellow brothers and sisters, especially the sick, the old and the needy.

Mary’s visit to Elizabeth lasted for three months. This means she didn’t go there out of disbelief at Angel Gabriel’s message. She didn’t go there to confirm if Angel Gabriel was telling the truth. She went there to serve. Mary had the nature of putting herself in the shoes of those in need and coming to their rescue. This was the same character she displayed at the Wedding Feast at Cana. This is also why many have received countless miracles and favours when they sought her intercession.

Zechariah prayed for many years for a child and did not get an answer. When the answer came, Zachariah forgot what he had been praying for. He felt that God had decided not to grant him a child anymore. His doubt was obvious to the Angel. What is that which I have been praying for? Have I reached a point of doubt? This reading should give me a rethink. God knows what He is doing.