Z is for Zachariah

Well before getting some zzz's for the night, I thought I'd actually write a post to finalize the A-Z Challenge. On this round, Z is for Zachariah, who was married to Elizabeth. There story is found in Luke 1. As I read through this particular chapter, a few things stood out to me.

Zachariah and Elizabeth were described as being righteous and walking blameless before the Lord. Yet they found themselves lacking something in their lives that they had dearly wanted. On an ordinary day as Zachariah was serving in the house of God, he had a divine visitation bringing news that not only had his prayers been heard but now would be answered. Yet Zachariah was fearful and in doubt. Which tells me that you can be serving in ministry in the house of God, the place where God is suppose to be, but be surprise when He actually shows up. Could it be that we're often going through the motion of things without real expectation of God making an appearance in our personal lives?

The angel was bringing him the answer to their prayers, which quite possibly had long been forgotten since their condition (Elizabeth's barrenness) had remained the same. And their position in regards to age had changed for the worse. However, the fact that the angel showed up with news that their request was to be answered tells me that at some point they had been praying the will of God. But the proper time and season had to coincide with one another. God had a greater purpose for Zachariah and Elizabeth having a baby than just reducing her shame or keeping up with the Jones. John needed to come on the scene at a certain time.

I also noted that Zachariah was made mute because he didn't believe the angel's message. But after the baby was born and he named the baby as the angel had instructed, he was able to talk again. Which leads me to believe that there are times when we should be quiet until we bring our speech into alignment with God's Word. I wonder what was going on in Elizabeth's mind when her husband came home speechless.

Their story makes me want to reexamine the things I once prayed for but have silently relinquished by stance because after all that area in my life is still bare and I have only increased in age. I find myself looking to see if there's some topics I need to refrain from discussing until I can get the mind of Christ on the matter. As I reflect on their story, it has me calling out to God asking Him to raise my expectation and help my unbelief.


Watch for the May 3 A-Z Mega post. Until then hope y'all have a great weekend.