“How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” – Lk 1:18
Today’s reading presents us with a great figure of faith and trust in God yet, when faced with a miraculous message he responds with doubt and disbelief. Zachariah’s apprehension about God’s message is testimony that even the most devoted, religious and pious people experience moments of doubts. This is a universal experience; doubt is not limited to people who lack faith. It can even confront those who are very dedicated. Doubt is a normal aspect of our spiritual journey, and it does not preclude us from receiving God’s blessings and being utilized by Him.
We are invited to deeper reflection about our trust and faith in God. The reading speaks to the Xaverian calling, which is a way of being put in our place, a place of humility and simplicity, from which we receive the grace to turn toward God and fall in love with God. In graced crossroads moments do we respond like Manoah in the first reading or like Zachariah? May we find solace in the example of our founder who, despite the difficult and challenging beginnings, trusted and had faith in the Divine providence.
Lord God, in Zechariah’s doubt, we see our own struggles to trust Your timing and Your plans. Teach us to trust in Your perfect timing and to find peace in the knowledge that You are working with all things, together, for good. Amen.
Brother Damiano Vincent Juma, CFX