One sad reality of today’s generation is suicide. When giving Confessions to the younger generation in public schools, not only once, not only twice, but several times would a young person admit that he or she has attempted suicide.

While there are many reasons why people, even children, attempt and commit suicide, according to studies one of the major reasons is “hopelessness.” Since people think that there is no solution to their problems, the only way is to end their lives. 

Tomorrow we celebrate the birth of John the Baptist. We must remember that when Elizabeth gave birth to John, she was not only barren, she was old too. Further, her pregnancy was very fragile. Three things we are reminded of:

1. God has a plan. God had a plan for Zechariah; God had a plan for Elizabeth. Certainly, God had a plan for John the Baptist. Why was he born when Zechariah and Elizabeth were already old? 
2. All Happens for a Reason and Purpose. We look at life’s many circumstances either as good or bad. When we get sick or when we lose money, we say life is bad. When we are given a U.S. visa or we get a promotion, we say life is good. For people of true faith, there is no good or bad circumstance. Everything happens for a reason and purpose. Zechariah became mute, which might have seemed bad. Elizabeth being initially barren might also have seemed bad. Everything happens for a reason and a purpose.
3. With God Nothing is Impossible. People never thought that Elizabeth could still give birth. People never thought that Zechariah would still be able to talk. Yet, with God nothing is impossible.

That is why, especially for those who are losing hope in life, especially those who are full of worry and fear, and especially for those who are just drifting while asking what life’s purpose is, let us always remember. God has plan; all happens for a reason and purpose; with God nothing is impossible. Let us continue to trust our unknown future to an all-knowing God.