SUNDAY December 19, 2021
The Birth of John the Baptist
And Mary remained with her [Elizabeth] about three months, and returned to her house. Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
Luke 1:56-58
Mary had stayed with her cousin for three months and then returned home. Now came the time for Elizabeth to deliver her baby. Elizabeth had remained in seclusion until the birth of her son. Now her neighbors and relatives began to hear how the Lord had blessed her. He had shown Elizabeth great mercy––everyone rejoiced.
Elizabeth had given birth in her old age, but that was not the only miracle to happen. On the eighth day, it was customary for a son be named after his father. However, Elizabeth voiced that the baby’s name was to be John. Those relatives and neighbors in attendance must have looked confused by this unfamiliar name, so they looked to Zacharias for further confirmation (Luke 1:59-62).
Zacharias motioned for a tablet, and to everyone’s amazement, he wrote the name––John. Immediately his tongue was loosed, and he could speak, just as the angel had said (Luke 1:20). The very first words to come out of his mouth were pure praise to his God (Luke 1:59-64).
When Zacharias had first heard the angel Gabriel’s message, he responded with words of unbelief. He could not imagine the possibility of having a child in his old age. But now that this miracle had taken place, Zacharias was filled with joy and boldness. He obeyed God and called the child John.
Do you have a habit of questioning God’s Word in unbelief? Or do you believe His Word and have nothing but praise on your lips?
I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.
~Psalm 34:1 CSB~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
