Advent Companions III
At the Abbey, “Christmas” decorations and celebrations don’t arrive until December 25, giving the sisters the entire season of Advent to wait and pray. Each year, Advent’s liturgy provides us with strong and wise companions for the journey.
Zechariah
Zechariah, Elizabeth’s husband, also makes this Advent journey with us. His path is one of learning in silence.
During his Temple service he doubts the promise of the angel and is struck mute. Silently, Zechariah spends the next 9 months watching the miraculous unfolding of the Lord’s plans.
Silently he cares for his wife in her pregnancy. Silently he watches the joy of the Visitation, the arrival of Mary with her unborn son. Silently he names his only son John.
After all this, what will he say? What has been growing inside his heart?
“Blessed be the Lord!”
His first words are praise. Silent service has turned doubt to thanksgiving.
May we follow Zechariah, taking time to be silent, listening with love to those around us this Advent, praising God in our hearts for his marvelous love that is working in each person.