Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard ...." (Luke 1:8-13)

I've often wondered whether, in his heart of hearts, Zechariah still wanted his prayer to be heard. Because it's one thing to ask for a baby when you're still young and strong enough to cope with him; it's another thing altogether to face sleepless nights and years of diapers when you are already old enough to have grandchildren!

But whether he still meant it or not, God meant it. And He meant it for good—for this baby, come so late in his parents' life, came into the world at exactly the right time to get the people ready for Jesus, our Savior. Ready or not, these two believers were caught up in God's plan—and to their endless benefit, as God made the world ready for Jesus, our Savior, who would rescue us from the power of evil through His life, death, and resurrection.

WE PRAY: Lord, help me to trust You, even when I think I'm not ready for what You're doing. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Are there any prayers you have prayed that you would be taken aback to have answered now?

* Why does God so often choose the people you'd least expect to do His work?

* When events in your life make you nervous? How do you find help in God?

Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Ezekiel 47-48    1 John 3

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