Devotion for Friday after Advent 2

Zacharias said to the angel, “How will I know this for certain? For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.” The angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you shall be silent and unable to speak until the day when these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.”

The people were waiting for Zacharias, and were wondering at his delay in the temple. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them; and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple; and he kept making signs to them, and remained mute. When the days of his priestly service were ended, he went back home.

After these days Elizabeth his wife became pregnant, and she kept herself in seclusion for five months, saying, “This is the way the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked with favor upon me, to take away my disgrace among men.” ~ Luke 1:18-29

Even though Zacharias was a priest who loved the Lord, he found it hard to believe what the angel told him. He questioned the possibility of having a child at this stage in his life, in effect, doubting God’s ability to do the impossible. How like us! We say we have faith and believe, but when we run into serious trouble, we see no way out. We depend on our own abilities to provide for our needs and we doubt God’s plan.

Father God, forgive me for depending on my own power when I am nothing without You. Forgive me for doubting that You can and will solve my problems. Even when the situation is hopeless, You are sovereign. You can work miracles. And if You decide to let me walk through tribulation, I know You are with me, and since Your plan for me is always good, I know You will bring me through my trials and lead me out on the other side. Thank You! In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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