I wonder what Elizabeth’s reaction was when she finally learned Zechariah’s story. Perhaps he wrote it down for her? At least we know how she felt about God’s promise—overjoyed and relieved, because in that time childlessness was usually blamed on the woman.
And so she took five months to stay close to home, in seclusion—and probably in silence most of the time, since her husband couldn’t speak. What did she do with that time—pray? Think? Dream about the future?
Surely she thanked God for her baby, who would prepare the way for the Messiah, Jesus. And I expect she spent a lot of time thinking about that coming Messiah—for the Old Testament was filled with promises about what Jesus would do. He would rescue everyone suffering under the power of sin, death, and the devil, laying down His own life to set us free—and then rising again.
WE PRAY: Lord Jesus, as we look back on Your great work, thank You for loving us. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Do you take time to pray and think quietly in God’s presence?
* What kinds of things do you focus on in prayer?
* What specific things are you thankful for about Jesus?
Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.