Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years." (Luke 1:18)
Luke's gospel starts the Advent story with the account of an elderly couple: Zechariah and Elizabeth. The presence of this couple in this narrative encourages us to remember:
God has heard the petitions we've prayed. The angel Gabriel said to Zechariah, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah: your prayer has been heard." (see Luke 1:13)
God can send a "sneak preview" of the supernatural. As an assurance of the miraculous birth of John, God sent a preview of another miracle-- Zechariah's silence. Gabriel said, "And now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day this happens..." (see Luke 1:20)
God alone receives the credit for His actions. Luke's gospel says that the people knew Zechariah had received a message from God because of two unusual events:
The interruption of action- Zechariah was taking too long to come out of the temple after the customary offerings and prayers had been made. (see Luke 1:21)
The interruption of speech- Zechariah was rendered incapable of pronouncing the priestly blessing, which was an expected component of his temple duties. (see Luke 1:22)
Have you prayed a prayer that seems to have gone unanswered for years?
Take heart. God has heard. He will send an answer.
Take care. Believe the messenger and the message.
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