Advent Studyනියැදිය

I find traditions, cultures, and ceremonies quite interesting! They are often what bind groups of people together and allow for all manner of celebrations. The culture during early A.D. surrounding the birth of Christ was rich in tradition and ceremony, as we observe from the account ofJohn’s birth. It was standard for boys to be named on the day of their circumcision, at 8 days old. Tradition held that boys would be named after their father, or at a minimum, another male relative.

Both Elizabeth and Zechariah were insistent their son be named John. Based on the text in verse 20 and then again in verses 61–63, we know Zechariah was mute. Some speculate he could not hear either. Still, we read that Zechariah wrote the name “John” and immediately regained his speech and offered praise to God! As the Holy Spirit moved, the Lord’s presence was evident and known over the baby, later known as John the Baptizer.

Consistently throughout Scripture, we observe God’s presence in big-and-powerful manifestations, and in small-and-signifcant ones, as well. John was given a name that didn’t belong to his father or relative, illustrating the beautiful understanding that God’s ceremony far outweighs the tradition and ceremony of man.

• Has there ever been a time in your life when you prioritized family or cultural tradition over God?

Prayer: God, I pray to be strong in my faith, regardless of tradition or ceremony. May I remember that your practices are greater than any of those determined by man.