Spiritual Checkup: Lesson in Humility Through Zechariah’s Story
“Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God.” ~ Lk 1:64
I don’t know about you but I find it interesting how nonchalant we are about the birth of John the Baptist.
How often do you encounter a video of a protestant debating this story?
Zechariah and Elizabeth were likely decades past their prime fertility years. Yet, they had a son after much prayer. We are so quick to dismiss this miracle as expected and common.
But, I leave that for another time.
What I want to discuss is Zechariah’s experience. Recall, that the he was mute because he doubted the words of the angel Gabriel. As penance, Gabriel told him he will lose his voice until the birth of his son.
It’s easy to think that it was a matter of timing for Zechariah to regain his voice but I think that’s how long it took him to surrender to God’s will.
Let’s not forget that Zechariah was a high priest. A man who consecrated his life to God. Yet, when his prayers were answered, he doubted so strongly that the messenger of God had to teach him a lesson.
A devout disciple doubted God’s power.
- Where do you see yourself in the imaginary hierarchy of Discipleship?
- How close do you think you are to God?
- How quick are you to consider yourself holy and righteous because of your faith?
I catch myself every now and then thinking I’m better than others spiritually. But, Zechariah’s example is a reminder that no matter how disciplined and devout we are, we can easily doubt God’s power over everything.
The question today’s Gospel raises up for me is: in what areas of my life I am so convinced that my conclusions and understanding of the world are so right that I fail to allow God to do His will in my life?
I have been there, done it, and still do it.
Zechariah had humble himself and relearn to relinquish his will for God’s will.
I must do the same and invite you to join me.
In peace,
~Juan
