December 19, 2025, Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent-A

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25

Psalm 71

Luke 1:5-25

“And you will have joy and gladness…”

Lord, who can understand your ways?  You answered Zechariah and Elizabeth’s prayer after many years of waiting.  Both were righteous and obedient without blame.  They faithfully persevered in their prayer for a child deep into their elderly years.  Zechariah questioned the wisdom and feasibility of this miracle and was given a few months of silence to accept your plan.  They were your instruments to bring the herald John into the world to prepare a people for you.  Lord, this story teaches me that acceptance is better than understanding.  It teaches me that patience and perseverance in prayer is rewarded.  It teaches that you hear all our prayers and will not answer until we are ready for the answer.  You will answer in a way that shows your power and wisdom.  This child was given back to you by joy filled and spirit filled parents to be the final prophet of your coming.  Lord, I offer to you all the blessings you’ve set my way.  Come Lord Jesus.  Amen.