What will we become?

Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue freed, and he began to speak, praising God. Fear came over all their neighbors, and all these things were talked about through out the entire hill country of Judea. All who heard them pondered them and said, "What then will this child become?" For, indeed, the hand of the Lord was with him.  Luke 1: 64-66 NRSV

Zechariah has just confirmed that his son's name is to be John. And as soon as he has done this, he regains the ability to speak and is filled with the Holy Spirit, praising God.

Their neighbors are filled with fear and begin spreading this story throughout the area. Everyone wonders what this means about this baby. What will he become?

As any parent has probably experienced, holding a newborn makes one wonder about what that child will become. What will they look like? What will their personality be? Will they be famous, rich, brilliant, and a Christian? Who will they marry? What will their profession be? The possibilities seem endless.

John's beginnings point to the action of God in his life. The divine has had a direct and greatly influential hand in the birth and future of this boy. No wonder everyone who hears and sees Zechariah is afraid.

But has not God had a direct and greatly influential hand in our birth stories as well? Does God not have great things in store for each one of us? Are we also not asked to be messengers of the Good News and the coming of Christ? Should each of us not be those who prepare the way for the coming of Jesus?

God, you have wonderful plans for what each of us will become. Help us to hold tight to your promise and be filled with your Spirit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims