12 December Luke 1:68-79
Whenever I read the opening words of the book of Amos, I imagine the crowds of people in Israel cheering as they heard the words that pronounced judgement on neighbouring countries.
The crowd became louder and more hysterical as each country was named – reaching fever pitch on hearing the words that judged the Kingdom of Judah, the rival nation since the division of the Kingdom after the death of Solomon.
Then silence fell as Amos passed judgement on Israel.
The words of God’s prophets have not always been well received. No-one likes to hear that their way of life is unacceptable.
Today, we read Zechariah’s prophecy. He spoke of God’s favour; he reminded people of the promise of God’s mercy and the covenant made between God and Israel. He indicated that his son, John, would be the prophet who prepares the way for the promised Saviour.
With the birth of John the Baptist, Zechariah is free to speak again, and turns immediately to song. It is a love song of two halves: to God, and to his new-born son.
I hope we are ready to listen to the good news given by Zechariah, but also to hear the words of those who challenge us.
‘Hush the noise’ – words that challenge us to focus on the true message of Christmas, more than the secular trappings, the ‘noise’ of the season.
Chris Davis
Loving God,
may the ‘dawn from on high break upon us’ once again
in this season of Advent and Christmas.
Open our hearts to hear and share your message of love.
Amen.
