Journeying With Christ: The Coptic Month of Kiahk of the Nativity FastSample

Week 1 Theme: Preparing for the Birth of St. John the Forerunner

Day 5: The Power of God's Word

In our journey of preparing for the birth of St. John the Forerunner, we come face to face with the power of God's Word. Luke 1:10-17 tells us the story of Zacharias, a priest who was chosen to enter the temple and offer incense while the people were praying outside. It was during this sacred moment that Archangel Gabriel appeared to him, announcing the miraculous birth of his son, John, who would prepare the way for the Lord.

However, Zacharias doubted the angel's message, questioning how it could be possible for him and his wife, Elizabeth, to have a child in their old age. As a consequence of his doubt, Zacharias was struck mute and remained unable to speak until the fulfillment of Archangel Gabriel’s words.

This account reminds us of the incredible power of God's Word. The Early Church Father, St. Clement of Alexandria, beautifully captures this truth when he proclaims, "The God and Father, indeed, of all cannot be contained, and is not found in a place, for there is no place of His rest; but His Word, through whom He made all things". By the power of His Word, God accomplishes great things. Scripture is not just a collection of letters and verses on a page; it carries within it the very power and authority of God Himself. The Word of God, the Logos, Himself says in John 14:12, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.”

Throughout the Scriptures, we witness the transformative impact of God's Word. It has the power to create, heal, restore, and bring about salvation. When God speaks, His Word brings forth life and fulfills His purposes. It is through His Word that God accomplishes His mighty deeds in the world and in our lives.

For Zacharias, the Archangel’s message held the power to bring about the fulfillment of God's divine plan. Despite his initial doubt, when the time came to name his son, Zacharias affirmed the name given by Archangel Gabriel: John, and In that moment, his speech was restored.

This restoration of speech symbolizes not only the fulfillment of the angel's prophecy but also the restoration of Zacharias's faith and trust in God's Word. It reminds us that when we open our hearts to receive God's message and align our lives with His will, His Word has the power to transform us and guide us on our journey.

As we reflect on the power of God's Word, let us recognize the importance of immersing ourselves in Scripture. The Bible is not just a historical document or a source of moral guidance; it is a living and active Word that has the potential to penetrate deep into our souls, shaping our thoughts, desires, and actions.

When we open ourselves to the Word of God, we allow it to challenge us, comfort us, convict us, and lead us into a deeper relationship with Christ. It becomes a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, guiding us through the twists and turns of life's journey.

Let us not be like Zacharias, who initially doubted God's Word, but rather let us be like St. Mary, who humbly responded, "Let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). May we have hearts that are open and receptive to the voice of God, allowing His Word to take root within us and bear fruit in our lives.

As we continue our journey of preparation, may the power of God's Word bring transformation, inspiration, and guidance. Let us approach Scripture with reverence and expectation, trusting that as we encounter the living Word of God, it will shape us into the image of Christ and equip us to fulfill our unique calling in His kingdom.