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Scripture Reading — Luke 1:5-17
They were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both well advanced in years.
Luke 1:7
The Bible tells many stories of people who couldn’t have children. Zechariah and Elizabeth were childless. In an age when every mother hoped to bear the coming Savior, it was a terrible hardship to have no children. Elizabeth and Zechariah must have suffered painfully.
Until God intervened, this had also happened to the parents of Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Samson, and Samuel. That’s quite a list—these are some of the most famous people in Israel’s history! By breaking into the lives of his people in amazing ways, God showed that nothing is too hard for him. Through these births, God displayed his amazing grace that would one day be seen in the most special birth of all.
Present hardship does not mean that life will always be difficult. In fact, it is often in times of trouble that we see God’s amazing grace most clearly.
Pray for grace to withstand difficult situations. Even Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were faithful to God, suffered through decades of disappointment and questioning. But through this waiting couple, God sent John the Baptist into the world, and he prepared the way for the mission of God’s own Son.
This is what God is like. Don’t be discouraged. God sends good, surprising things to those who wait and pray.
Father, forgive us for doubting your power when our situations are difficult. No matter what we are going through, help us to follow your will and triumph over hardships. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Jang Ho Park
Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.
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