Gabriel's arrival at 6th Month

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season:  Third Week : Saturday*

*Gospel :  Luke 1:26-38*

*First Reading : Is 7:10-14*

*Responsorial Psalm : 24: 1-6*

*Gabriel's arrival at 6th Month*

*1) The Sixth Month*

Gabriel was sent to Mary six months after Elizabeth—Mary’s relative—had become pregnant.

This timing: Links John the Baptist and Jesus from the very beginning. Shows that God’s plan is unfolding step by step, not randomly

Gabriel even points this out to Mary: “And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son… this is the sixth month with her who was called barren.” (Luke 1:36)

So the sixth month is meant to confirm God’s power and faithfulness.

*2) Symbolic Meaning of “Six”*

In biblical symbolism: 

Six often represents incompleteness or waiting

Seven represents completion or perfection

So the sixth month can suggest:

The world is still waiting

God’s promise is almost fulfilled, but not yet complete

Jesus’ arrival will bring that fulfillment

This fits beautifully with the theme of expectation and hope.

*3) From Barrenness to New Life*

Elizabeth’s pregnancy was considered impossible due to her age.

Mary’s pregnancy was humanly impossible because she was a virgin.

By mentioning the sixth month, Scripture is saying:

God has already done the impossible once

He can do it again

That’s why Gabriel says: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

*4) A Quiet but Powerful Moment* 

God did not send Gabriel: 

At a public celebration

In Jerusalem

To religious leaders

He sent him at a specific, humble moment in time to a young woman in Nazareth.

The sixth month highlights that:

God works precisely

God works quietly

God keeps His promises on His timetable

*5) Old Testament Pattern: The Forerunner Comes Shortly Before the King*

In ancient times: A messenger would go ahead of the king. But not years in advance — only a short time before

Six months fits this pattern: Enough time to prepare, Not enough time to overshadow the King. John prepares, then steps aside.

*6) John’s Role: “He Must Increase, I Must Decrease”*

John’s entire identity is to be the forerunner: “He will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah.” (Luke 1:17)

The six-month gap ensures: John is older, John begins ministry earlier, John publicly introduces Jesus

Yet John also says: “He who comes after me ranks before me.” (John 1:30)

So the timing shows a paradox:

John comes first in time

Jesus comes first in greatness

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*