December 19, 2023
"The angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John. “You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. “For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother’s womb. “And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. . . Zacharias said to the angel, “How will I know this for certain? For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.” The angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. “And behold, you shall be silent and unable to speak until the day when these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.”
Zacharias’ faith was worlds from Mary’s. Mary: “may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Zacharias: “How will I know this for sure?”. Mary had absolute trust. Zacharias trusted only in what was on the surface. Mary gave no thought to herself. Zacharias totally focused on himself. God has His ways of silencing us when we doubt Him.
Oh God, forgive me for doubting Your ability to speak truth through me. Help me stay humbly repentant, trusting You to use me to turn hearts back to You and Your true joy. I put my absolute trust in You.