Nowadays, being barren or infertile in many societies is no longer a
stigma or issue. People in these societies have moved on in their
thinking and adoption is a possible and acceptable alternative. However,
some societies still view being barren as a great
embarrassment or a punishment from the divine. Being barren in such
societies was seen as grounds for a divorce (such societies usually put
the blame on the woman), and in some cases, the woman was badly treated,
shunned or became a source of ridicule and gossip.
In today's reading, we come across Manoah and his
wife who was barren. In today's Gospel, we also come across Zechariah
and his wife Elizabeth who was barren. Even though these couples had
suffered much due to being barren; even though they suffered much
embarrassment and were a source of gossip and ridicule; they chose to
stayed on with each other, bore the burden together, and were faithful
to each other. God did not abandon them and gave them a precious gift of
two babies, Samson and John the Baptist, who later carried out great
deeds for the greater glory of God. If God can do
wonders for these couples and cast away their shame, just imagine what
He can do for us today. Let us not feel down or embarrassed but remain
faithful and hopeful, knowing that God will help us and not abandon us.
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