Luke 1:5-25
I am so thankful that my God is awesome. My confidence derives from the knowledge that God never changes, but is the same from yesterday to today and going forward to all tomorrows. God has blessed me with many gifts. One of the most cherished is the gift of prayer.
Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, were faithful servants. For years they prayed devoutly for a child. One day the angel of the Lord, Gabriel, appears to Zechariah and the priest is gripped with fear. The angel says, Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard (v. 13).
Elizabeth is barren at a time when the ability to bear children and produce an heir defined a woman’s worth. When she conceives, she says, This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people (v. 25).
All of us have requests that we yearn for God to grant. I am consumed with claustrophobia. At this stage of my life, it seems that all of my friends, acquaintances, and family members travel frequently. Collectively they have traveled the world. But while they move from ocean to ocean, my fear of being trapped has kept me grounded. When those around me are going everywhere, I feel stigmatized. When I grow tired of smiling politely while others make grand vacation plans, I am going to stay in prayer, remain faithful, and wait patiently.
God’s care for Zechariah and Elizabeth inspires our confidence in God’s care for us. Like Zechariah, we should bring all of our concerns and troubles to God. God wants us to draw near and not hide from our Creator. I am waiting for God to answer my prayer and free me from my affliction.
Consider
When have you waited patiently for God to answer your prayer? What helps you wait? To what sources of help might God lead you? How does your struggle improve your relationship with God?
Pray
Faithful God, help us share with you everything that troubles us. Remind us that your love and presence are always with us, drawing us closer. Amen.