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Zacharias and Elizabeth were faithful people who had carried a deep disappointment for many years. They loved the Lord and walked before Him sincerely, yet they had no child and were now well advanced in age. Their story reminds us that faithfulness does not mean life will be free from sorrow or unanswered questions.
While Zacharias was serving in the temple, he received the once-in-a-lifetime privilege of burning incense before the Lord. There, the angel Gabriel appeared and told him, “Your prayer is heard.” Elizabeth would bear a son named John, and this child would prepare the people for the coming of the Lord.
Zacharias struggled to believe what he heard. His doubt brought correction, and he was unable to speak until the promise was fulfilled. Yet his weakness did not cancel God’s word. That is encouraging for us. God’s purposes do not depend upon our emotions remaining steady or our faith always feeling strong. What He has promised, He is able to bring to pass.
When Elizabeth conceived, she recognised that the Lord had looked upon her with mercy and removed the reproach she had carried. Others may remember our shame, disappointment or past failure, but God is not limited by the labels people place upon us. He remains gracious, patient and faithful to those who humbly trust Him.
