Homily - Saturday - Day 6 Simbung Gabi Novena
Homily on Luke 1:26-38: Many Roles, One Divine Plan
We find ourselves 2/3 into the Simbang Gabi Novena, having journeyed
through the stories of those who played a part in the birth of Jesus. Each day,
we have met a new character—John the Baptist, the chief priests and elders, the
two sons in Jesus’ parable, the ancestors in Jesus’ genealogy, Joseph,
Zechariah and Elizabeth, and today, Mary herself.
What stands out is how different each person’s role
was. Some were faithful from the start, others doubted, some were outsiders,
and some were called to do the impossible. Yet, God used each one, with their
strengths and weaknesses, to bring about the greatest story ever told.
Let’s reflect on a few of these characters:
- John
the Baptist was the forerunner, preparing the way for Jesus, calling
people to repentance. His role was to point beyond himself to the One who
was to come.
- The
chief priests and elders questioned Jesus’ authority. Their skepticism
reminds us that not everyone will understand or accept God’s plan right
away.
- The
two sons in the parable represent those who say yes but do not act,
and those who struggle but ultimately do God’s will. God values our
actions, not just our words.
- The
genealogy of Jesus is filled with imperfect people—sinners, outsiders,
and the unexpected. God’s plan is not limited by our past or our status.
- Joseph
was called to trust in a message that defied logic and social norms. He
listened, obeyed, and protected Mary and Jesus.
- Zechariah
and Elizabeth experienced disappointment and disgrace, yet God’s
timing brought them joy and purpose. Even in silence, Zechariah’s faith
grew.
- Mary,
in today’s Gospel, is visited by the angel Gabriel. She is troubled, she
questions, but ultimately she says yes—her “fiat” is a model of trust and
surrender.
What do these stories teach us?
God’s will is accomplished not by perfect people, but by
willing people. Each character had a unique role, and none of them saw the
whole picture. They had to trust, to act, to wait, to hope. Some were called to
speak, others to listen. Some to lead, others to support. Some to bear
suffering, others to bring joy.
And so it is with us. In our families, our workplaces, our
communities, and our Church, God calls each of us to a role. It may not be the
role we expected or wanted. It may be hidden or public, easy or difficult. But
it is essential.
How do we discover our role?
- By
listening, as Mary did, for God’s voice in prayer and Scripture.
- By
being open to God’s surprises, as Joseph was.
- By
persevering in faith, like Zechariah and Elizabeth.
- By
acting with humility and courage, like John the Baptist.
And when we doubt or feel unworthy?
Remember the genealogy of Jesus—God’s plan includes the
unlikely and the imperfect. What matters is not our ability, but our
availability. God’s grace does the rest.
As we continue this Simbang Gabi, let us ask:
- What
is God inviting me to say yes to?
- Where
is God asking me to trust, to act, to wait, or to hope?
- How
can I support others in their roles, as Mary visited Elizabeth to share
her joy and encouragement?
Let us pray for the courage to say, with Mary, “Let it be
done to me according to your word.” May we each play our part in God’s
unfolding story, knowing that together, with all our different roles, we help
bring Christ into the world.
