Zechariah and Mary
Pastor Joy
Luke 1:13,18
But the angel said, "Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John."…Zechariah said to the angel, "How can I be sure this will happen? I'm an old man now and my wife is also well along in years." As a result of this, the angel made Zechariah silent until after John was born.
Luke 1:31,34
"You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus."…"Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”
When I read this chapter I keep asking myself why Zechariah gets "silenced" but Mary doesn’t? They both received a visit from the same angel, they both received similar news, and they both initially responded to that news with hesitation.
There are plenty of articles, opinions, and commentaries comparing and contrasting the two reactions and their results. Many believe the difference lies in the fact that Zechariah expressed doubt by asking for proof, whereas Mary expressed faith in simply asking how God would accomplish the task.
Ultimately, God knew their hearts. He already knew their fears, uncertainties, confusion, and anxiety. Nevertheless, He worked in them individually and personally so as to bring about His glory. Note the outcome of the two events.
Luke 1:64
Instantly, Zechariah could speak again and he began praising God.
Luke 1:46-47
And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…”
However God speaks to us and whatever our response may be, God will ultimately be worshipped, praised, and obeyed.
Pray this prayer with me…
“God, thank you for being in control. Thank you for not casting me out because of my human nature to doubt and fear the unknown. Thank you for your perfect mercy and love that you demonstrate. You have so much for me. When fear and doubt rear its ugly head I want you to silence it and remove it from me so I may glorify and praise you! Amen”
Have a great Monday.