Not long after the angel Gabriel told Zechariah the news of the son he would have, Elizabeth became pregnant. Six months have gone by & guess who has returned…Gabriel! So what news does the angel bring this time? Similar news, but to a different person, a relative.
In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. Gabriel appeared to her and said “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.” (Luke 1:26-28, 31)
Then Mary, similar to Zechariah asked “But how can I know this will happen?” The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. (Luke 1:35)
Now, wait a minute! Mary has a little doubt at that moment too, but her speech wasn’t taken. What’s the difference? Maybe it was because Mary was young in age and in faith. Zechariah was a priest, and very old…he should have known better, right? Maybe. We don't know, but I’m sure we have all had Zechariah moments and God looks at us like “Really?”
Ok, back to the story. So Mary is confused at this point, but Gabriel continues to explain. Then he drops another bomb! 💣💣💣💣 “Your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For the word of God will never fail.” No longer confused Mary responded in faith and said “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” (Luke 1:38)
Which person do you most relate to? Has your doubt silenced you temporarily, or are you rejoicing in your belief of what God is going to do in your life?
Even though Zechariah’s speech was taken away, it would return to him once the child was born. That's an entire 9 months! Can you imagine being able to speak your entire life then all of a sudden you can't? We have to thank God for the little blessing that we receive daily.
What is your favorite part of this story?
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