And Zechariah said to the angel, "How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years." And the angel answered him, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time." (Luke 1:18-20)

Zechariah made a big mistake. Not only did he fail to trust God's message, but he overlooked the fact that it was an actual real angel talking to him. I mean, what greater sign could you possibly want?

Nevertheless, he got one—for the miraculous sign he demanded was that he would be mute for the next nine months. I wonder how often he regretted his hasty words?

Thanks be to God! God is forgiving and kind—and He has a sense of humor. Zechariah's mistake made no difference to God's mercy. He still sent John, to the great joy of Elizabeth—and the more silent joy of her husband. And six months later He sent Jesus, our long-awaited Savior—whose life, death, and resurrection would bring us back to our patient, loving God in joy and peace.

WE PRAY: Dear Father, when I mess up, forgive me and straighten me out. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Do you think Zechariah's punishment fitted his crime?

* Do you think Gabriel had ever met with that kind of disbelief before, in all his service to God?

* What about you? Would you have disbelieved like Zechariah, or trusted like Mary?

Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Ezra 3-4    1 John 5

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