“Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness …, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
Luke 1:78-79
Everybody, it seems, is looking for a Christmas miracle. This time of year, the heart yearns for something new. Just google “Christmas miracle” and see how many results you get! But eventually the post-Christmas letdown comes with the return of life’s everyday dark clouds.
A cloud hung over the head of Zechariah. He was an average priest among hundreds in his extended family, and his wife Elizabeth was ordinary, too. Yet God was about to act not only on a national level on behalf of their people Israel; He would also intervene in a personal way. Elizabeth, a godly woman, was unable to bear a child, something that would cause those around her to wonder what sin God was punishing her for.
Perhaps all you hear right now is the silence of God. Like Zechariah and Elizabeth, you are faithful and earnestly believe in God. But all you hear in your suffering is silence. From this part of the Christmas story, be encouraged that the same Lord who remembered His people in Judea and remembered His people on the cross has also remembered you.
A cloud hung over the head of Zechariah. He was an average priest among hundreds in his extended family, and his wife Elizabeth was ordinary, too. Yet God was about to act not only on a national level on behalf of their people Israel; He would also intervene in a personal way. Elizabeth, a godly woman, was unable to bear a child, something that would cause those around her to wonder what sin God was punishing her for.
Perhaps all you hear right now is the silence of God. Like Zechariah and Elizabeth, you are faithful and earnestly believe in God. But all you hear in your suffering is silence. From this part of the Christmas story, be encouraged that the same Lord who remembered His people in Judea and remembered His people on the cross has also remembered you.
Scripture Focus
Luke 1:5-7
Insight
“Israel’s strength and consolation,/ hope of all the earth thou art;/ dear desire of every nation,/ joy of every longing heart.” (Charles Wesley, 1745)
Bible In A Year
- Daniel 7-8
- Proverbs 8
- Hebrews 11
