Day 9

We know more about the parents of John the Baptist than we do about the parents of Jesus. John’s father, Zechariah shares his name with the Old Testament prophet and was a priest serving in the Jerusalem Temple. It is while on duty, entering the Holy Place that Gabriel comes to inform him that his prayer has been heard; his wife, Elizabeth, is to have child. Because of his age, Zechariah exhibits disbelief and is rebuked by being struck dumb.

Sometimes we will be struck dumb by stories of faith or of the miraculous. Sometimes it is good to admit that we don’t know everything. At times like this it would be wise to recall the faith of Zechariah when he’s released from his doubt.