Luke 1:65-66
He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God.
God shows great love toward those who believe. However sometimes we are tested. Such was the case with Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist. Zechariah was a faithful priest for the temple and followed the prescriptions and laws. When Zechariah encountered the angel Gabriel, in the temple who told him of the coming of his son, he didn't believe it. After all, both he and his wife Elizabeth were aged and his wife was barren. Gabriel told Zechariah to name him John. But because Zechariah questioned the angel and didn't believe, he was struck mute. Today's reading from Luke finds Elizabeth giving birth and the conversation with the people on what the child's name would be. It was customary to name the child, especially the first born, after a relative or father. Everyone expected Zechariah to be named for him, but instead, Elizabeth and Zechariah said "John". Because Zechariah was obedient, he was then able to speak.
How often are we obedient to the Spirit? When we try to do things on our own, more often than not, we run into trouble, especially on the big decisions. All of those things we do should come after prayer and discernment. That's why its important to start each day with prayer, thanking God for the night, for the rest and for what is to come. We should ask the holy spirit to guide and direct us in our daily decisions all for the greater glory of God. If everyone did this everyday, then I would suspect that there would be less violence, crime, and anger in the world. God can move us in ways that we may not realize, especially for those who least expect it. Abraham never expected to be tested by God; nor did Moses. Esther, Samuel, and David didn't expect to be called by God. The disciples certainly didn't, nor did Paul. But they all accepted that the spirit of God was in their midst. All had different stories, but the same conclusion. The same can be said with us. The Holy Spirit can move all of us to great things in our homes, communities and work environments, if we are open. Allow the Holy Spirit to move you and you will find out things about yourself you never imagined.
