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“Now listen! You will become silent and unable to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my (Gabriel) words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.” Luke 1:20 (ESV)

Despite an empty cradle and a lifetime of an unfilled longing, Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, chose to obey and serve rather than become bitter and disillusioned. Their integrity and faithfulness characterized not just months but the decades of their lives.

The book of Luke recounts the pivotal moment when Zechariah was chosen for an extraordinary honor. Each division of priests served in the temple twice yearly. Being chosen to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense was rare and usually happened only once during a priest’s lifetime. Zechariah was chosen for this honor and right in the midst of his serving Gabriel, the angel of the Lord, appeared.

Overcome with fear, Zechariah had no idea that unbelievable was about to make it’s entrance. Gabriel wasted no time sharing the good news – his prayers had been heard. Elizabeth would have a son. And not just a son, but one named John who would prepare the hearts of the people for the Messiah. Unbelievable – yes that would probably be the words floating on my lips if I were Zechariah. How could an old man and old woman give life to a child? The very idea was beyond Zechariah’s comprehension.

Quite a lot to take in wouldn’t you say? Even the righteous one who had served God all his life couldn’t grasp the magnitude of this divine blessing. Wouldn’t we be right there with him too? Easy to cast judgment when Zechariah’s disbelief caused his lips to be sealed until the baby was born. Bet we’ve walked in those shoes many times – choosing to allow doubt to silence the truth of God’s promises.

Disbelief robs us of the pure joy found in trusting God for the impossible. Our mighty and powerful God still births miracles right in the midst of our mundane moments. He longs to do the unthinkable and unbelievable – it’s where His glory shines the brightest. So sweet friend what’s our impossible this holiday season? Whatever we are facing, wherever fear is reigning, regardless of the empty past staring us straight in the face, lean into the One who delights in doing the extraordinary for those who call upon His name.

“Father, unbelievable is your trademark – doing what only You can do. Help us to trust You completely and not allow doubt to reign in our hearts.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life