Luke 1:11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense.
To have an angel of the Lord appear to you and say that your prayer has been heard (v13). How wonderful that reassurance would be. But even without the assurance of an angel appearing to let me know, I’m pretty sure that God of all creation, who knows every hair on my head, who collects my tears in a bottle, who loves me more than the sparrows, hears me. Always.
Luke 1:12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear.
I’m still not sure what to do when His answer is not yet or not in that way. Those answers are painful, yet God is a loving, sovereign, merciful God, so while a not yet or not in that way is hard to take, I am learning–slowly, painfully, grudgingly–that I can trust Him, even in my sadness and disappointment. He has a plan for my good and His glory.
Luke 1:13 But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.
Precious Savior, Thank You for hearing our prayers. Thank You for loving us fiercely. Thank You that even when we are sad, even when we don’t understand, even when we are disappointed and confused, You are still in control. You are sovereign and loving and we can trust You. Even then.
Luke 1:14-15 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.
Have a blessed day.