"Nothing is impossible to God"

 

Today we hear two stories of divine intervention in apparently impossible human situations. Two women, previously unable to have children, both became mothers, one of Samson and the other of John the Baptist. ''Nothing is impossible to God,'' as Gabriel said to Mary referring to Elizabeth. The time of Christmas is the time for miracles, when families and friends who have been out of contact come together to share. Over the weekend, I had the happiness of sharing with the Zimbabwe community who celebrated a reflective liturgy in their own language and culture. The strands of faith and culture came together again as Colombian people came together for the third night of their Christmas novena as they too sang, prayed and shared in their own language. But the most satisfying part was when those who would otherwise be alone for Christmas were invited to join a family for the celebratory meal. However, because of the political upheaval in Peru, there is much sadness. At the moment, roads are blocked and no public or private transport is allowed to operate. Unless there is a change in the run up to Christmas, it means that sons and daughters will not be able to travel home to share this special family event together. May our prayer in this last week of Advent be that no humanly caused situation will prevent the love and unity of the Holy Family from being expressed and lived in all our family gatherings.

 

 Zechariah and Elizabeth