The account of the birth of John the Baptist in St. Luke’s gospel parallels the story of the birth of Samson in the book of Judges. For example, both fathers (Manoah and Zachariah) are skeptical in hearing the angelic announcement of the coming birth of their sons. Zachariah is struck dumb because of his doubt. Of course Mary also questions the angel about the birth of Jesus. “How can this be?” Her question is not skeptical or cynical, but rather an request for information. This being so, what do I do now? Our relationship with God can be filled with questions at times. Why is this happening? How come so much suffering? Like Mary, our questions should open us to following where God is leading.
