December 19, 2024 Thursday of the Third Week of Advent
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121924.cfm
We have two visits from angels today in the readings. One from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament. Both barren women, who have been longing for a child. In the first reading, an angel appears to Samson’s mom. The angel said that Samson will save the people and that no blade shall touch his hair. Of course the story of Samson and Delilah is well known and he does lose his hair, his strength.
In the gospel, an angel appears to Zechariah, Elizabeth’s husband. When he is told that Elizabeth will have a child, he doesn’t believe due to her advanced years. The angel said then he will not speak until the child is born. The angel tells him to name the child John. John the Baptist. Two elderly women, two men to save the world, and so famous even in this time. Most of the world, especially Christians, know who Samson and John the Baptist are.
Holy Spirit guide me through Advent.
