Zechariah and Mary - Honor Versus Shame

Homily for Tuesday of the Second Week In Advent

The first chapter of St. Luke’s Gospel relates two different Annunciation stories. We heard the first yesterday and the second today. They are remarkably similar in several aspects. Both Zechariah and Mary are fearful and are greeted with the oft repeated, “Do not be afraid!” Both of them are also faithful Jews who would fall into the category of the remnant of Israel. Both receive messages that are difficult to understand and believe. Indeed, both of them express a doubt regarding the message.

Zechariah responds to the angel in this way: ““How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” On the other hand, Mary’s response is phrased a little differently, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” Because of his response, Zechariah is struck mute. Mary’s response, however, does not incur any sanction. Wherein lies the difference?

As has happened in many other situations in the Scriptures, this can be explained because of the cultural belief that one must avoid dishonorable and shameful behavior and must also seek behavior that brings honor not only to one’s self but to God.

The angel has reported to Zechariah that God is about to wipe away the shame that he and Elizabeth have endured because of their inability to have children. Rather than questioning God’s decision, Zechariah’s response should have been one of gratitude for the favor that is being granted to him.

The angel has reported to Mary that God is about to put her in a situation which could bring shame and danger into her life. She is betrothed to Joseph, something that has far greater consequences in Jewish life than it does in our modern day understanding of betrothal or engagement. Her question is about the dishonor and shame that she might incur through her pregnancy. She does not question whether God can do this. Instead, she questions whether or not she will fall victim to this dishonor and shame.

Once again, the Scriptures remind us that true honor is bestowed upon us by God, not through some action of our own. Once Mary understands that God will be with her through this potential trial, she willingly accepts the message. Therein lies the difference between these two situations.

Mary teaches us that not only are we to conform our lives to God’s will, we are also to give God the glory and praise and gratitude for all the blessings with which we have been blessed.