Friday of the Third Week of Advent
An interesting episode occurs early in Luke’s Gospel. The angel Gabriel appears to the priest Zechariah to tell him that his old and infertile wife will give birth to a son who will become John the Baptist. Zechariah is confused and asks Gabriel, “How shall I know this? Because I am old and my wife is advanced in years.” Gabriel’s response is to turn Zechariah mute, saying “But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.”
Zechariah is made mute, but when Gabriel appears to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus, Mary is also confused. She asks “How can this be?” and recalls her virginity. Yet Gabriel’s response is not to make her mute. Instead, Gabriel explains to her that the Holy Spirit will overshadow Mary.
Why does Gabriel make Zechariah mute, while not punishing Mary? Both asked Gabriel a question; why is Zechariah punished and not Mary? The difference between Mary and Zechariah is subtle but important. Mary is confused about how this is supposed to happen. Mary’s response is a recognition of her own ignorance. Zechariah, on the other hand, responds with skepticism. He asks, “How shall I know this?” as if to ask, “How do I know you’re telling the truth?”
It’s one thing to be confused. God does not fault us for our confusion or ignorance. The problem is when our confusion leads to disbelief in the power of God. May we be like Mary. May we confront confusion in a way that seeks understanding and trusts in God - not treating God with suspicion.