Malachi 3:1-4,23-24
Psalm 24(25):4-5,8-9,10,14
Luke 1:57-66
In today’s gospel passage, during the naming ceremony of her son, Elizabeth declares that their child will be named John. When prompted, Zechariah, who has been rendered speechless, writes that the child’s name is indeed John. He does not express a future intent for the child to be called John but affirms it as the name given by the angel (1:13), signifying his obedience to divine instruction. Following his affirmation of faith, Zechariah regains his ability to speak.
The surrounding community expresses curiosity about the potential character and destiny of the child, remarking that “the hand of the Lord was with him” (1:66). This underscores the principle that when discerning candidates for ministry or critical roles, it is not merely their innate abilities, intellectual capacity, eloquence, or charisma that should be prioritized. Rather, the foremost criterion is their faithfulness and alignment with God’s will; they must be individuals upon whom the hand of the Lord rests.
In light of this, we urge ourselves to seek a deeper relationship with God. Today , let us ask the Lord to be our God, to be worshipped as such, and to ensure that His guidance, power, and equipping presence accompany us in the service He has prepared for each and everyone of us. Amen.
Stay safe and stay blessed!
Fr Joseph Osho
