An angel told Manoah’s barren wife that she was going to conceive and bear a son. The promise was followed by the instruction or command to take neither wine nor strong drink, and eat nothing unclean. In the gospel, an angel told Zechariah that his barren wife, Elizabeth, would conceive and bear a son. An instruction also followed the promise that the boy was to drink neither wine nor strong drink. Christmas is a time we recall God’s promise and gift of salvation to all his people. This promise too came with an instruction or command for us. Recall the story of the rich young man who asked Jesus what he must do to gain eternal life? Jesus’ answer is the instruction for us: to keep the commandments, and to use whatever gifts God has given us in this life to serve him and his children. Our duty is to obey God’s commands. God’s duty is to fulfill his promises. Advent is a good time to examine how we have been observing God’s commands and to make amends. 

Prayer: Faithful and loving God, help us with the strength and courage to follow your commands, and so inherit your promises. Amen.