The significance of the silence of Zachariah

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season: Third Week : Thursday*

*Gospel :Lk 1:5-25*

*First Reading : Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 71:3-4a, 5-6ab, 16-17*

*The significance of the silence of Zachariah*

*1) The aspects of Faith and Doubt*

Zachariah's initial response to Gabriel's message was doubt.

His silence becomes a consequence of his lack of faith. 

His silence also a reminder of the importance of trusting God's promises even when the things seems to be impossible by human standards 

*2) The silence and the Reflection*

Zachariah's period of silence was also a time of reflection and spiritual growth 

Since he could not speak, he had to rely on other ways to communicate and ponder deeply on God's message 

By the time his speech was restored, he was ready to praise God and prophesy bodly 

Silence can be seen as a gift that allows us ti pause, listen to God, and grow in understanding

*3) God's Faithfulness in Human Failure*

Despite Zachariah's disbelief, God's promise was fulfilled. Elizabeth conceived and John was born

This shows that God's plans are not hindered by our limitations or failures 

God's faithfulness is greater  than our weakness. God can write straight in crooked lines

God can bring his plans even when we fall 

*4) Preparation for greater things*

Zachariah's silence also resulted in greater things 

The silence prepared him to proclaim one of the most profound prophecies about God's salvation plan in the Benedictus (Luke 1:67-79)

In one Word, the silence of Zachariah is a story of discipline, growth, restoration, reminding us to trust in God's promises and to remain faithful to Him alone 

*5) God's mercy in discipline*

Although Zachariah's muteness was a consequence of his doubt, it was not a punishment to condemn, but a discipline to over come his doubt 

God's mercy is evident in the way He restored Zachariah and allowed him to participate in Salvific plan 

*6) The Value of Silence?* 

How do I handle the silence in my life? 

What are my reaction when I silenced because of various others factors which are around me? 

What are the lessons I can learn from the silence?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*