ChristmasReading2022A - Flipbook - Page 41
It’s a lot to take in, though. And the “elephant in the room” no one is
addressing is his and Elizabeth’s age. The reality of his life, as he
perceives it, is beyond the possibility of God doing the very thing the
angel spoke of. And he voices his doubt that God can deliver on this
promise. Ironically, he needs more proof than a conversa on with a
celes al-being delivers. The angel tells Zechariah that because he has
doubts about God’s word, he will be silent for nine months to think
through his doubts and work it all out in his mind. And he does. His
rst words are not: “It’s a boy!” The very rst thing he does when he is
able to speak—nine months later—is to praise God. The words burst
out of his mouth: “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he
has come to his people and redeemed them” (Luke 1:68).
One of the lessons of the Zechariah event is that the gi s—as great as
they are—point to an even greater Giver. Christmas is about a birth,
redemp on and the coming of God. And when we nd our voice, we
join with Zechariah in praise of God. He works in the world!
❅FOR CONTEMPLATION:
Luke 1:68-79
❅FOR REFLECTION:
Why does Zechariah doubt the words of the angel?
What is the purpose of Zechariah’s nine months of silence?
What did Zechariah come to believe? Was it bigger than the birth of
John?
❅FOR PRAYER (ONE-MINUTE):
“Father, I believe, help me with my unbelief. Help me with my
unbelief. Help me overcome my skep cism.” (pause)
“Grant me eyes to see and ears to hear. Grant me to discern Your
work in the world and people around me.” (pause)
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“And as I see it, I open my mouth in praise of Your greatness. Your
deeds in all the earth are mighty. Your work in the hearts and souls of
men are loving. I praise You! And it in His name I pray, Amen.””
(pause)
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DAY Nineteen: December 16 - Friday