Luke 1:57-66
“Notice what you notice.” We’ve heard these birth narratives and read them so many times that they have become so very familiar to us. Sometimes it’s hard to find something new. But I am confident that in reading and re-reading these passages again and again that something will stand out for you. That was the case today for me and what stood out for me was one word, “they”.
The word “they” occurs six times in today’s first seven verses, with “they” referring back in the text to Elizabeth’s neighbors and relatives (v. 58). And what did “they” do? (1) They rejoiced with her. (2) They came to circumcise the child. (3) They would have named him Zacharias. (4) They argued with Elizabeth on her naming him John. (5) They appealed to Zacharias. And finally in verse 63, they all wondered (were astonished) at Zacharias agreeing with Elizabeth. “They” sound like good-hearted, well-intentioned … meddlers!! They come with joy ready to do “the right thing” and are befuddled when Elizabeth and Zacharias have something else in mind. And when their “advice” is rejected, fear (v. 65) and …??gossip??!!! “And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea.”
Is this little caricature relevant to our 21st century? Have we found ourselves under pressure to do this or that? “Friendly” advice can be difficult enough when we have a good understanding of where we might be headed, but full-bore, pressured, overwhelming advice can be especially difficult if we are uncertain and are still seeking the Lord as to His direction for us. Do this! Do that!
But also, let’s put the shoe on the other foot. Are we the meddlers? Are we the ones liberally sharing our “certain” advice? Maybe especially to our children…? (Personally, I am fully guilty there!) Or do we gossip with our fellow Christians about others’ circumstances or as to what others should do? Guilty, again!!
Let’s not meddle. Let’s pray.
Great point about the “they”, the community of believers, Fred. Yes, we/I can get beyond our role as a church to love each other and share the Gospel: meddling, unsolicited advice, opinions on what others should do. Most important, we need to listen and pray first.