WEDNESDAY December 6, 2023
Joy and Gladness
And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him [Zacharias], standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.”
Luke 1:10-14
Zacharias and Elizabeth were righteous––blameless. This couple loved and served God with all their hearts. They were loyal toward Him. For years they prayed for a child, but now they were an elderly couple––well past the age of conceiving a baby.
The old priest continued to serve his God. While a multitude of people gathered outside the Temple, Zacharias remained inside. In the Holy Place, at the right time during the hour of incense, he remained alone to burn incense. He offered prayers for the people, as the people outside also prayed to the Lord.
Suddenly, the angel Gabriel spoke to Zacharias. He was given a message from the Lord. At that very moment, 400 years of silence was broken! The first announcement from the Lord after 400 years was an answer to prayer for a child. Elizabeth would have a child. God was bringing Zacharias and Elizabeth into a season of joy and gladness!
Zacharias was in total shock! Gabriel continued to tell him to name his son John. The name John means “the Lord is gracious.” The Lord was about to begin a brand-new work. Little did Zacharias and Elizabeth know that they were chosen by God to open an incredible chapter in history. In answering their prayers, these events were leading to the birth of Christ.
Christmas is a season of joy and gladness. Embrace its true meaning.
My prayer today is that the message of this Christmas time will be a personal message to you that Jesus will be Prince of Peace in your life and will bring peace and satisfaction and joy to you.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
