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God and ZechariahTuesday, December 19, 2000
Luke 1:18 Except Gabriel. The angel didn't accept or appreciate Zechariah's disbelief. I don't think that Zechariah questioned Gabriel's identity, only the truth of what he said. How could he, such an old man, and even more Elizabeth his wife, such an old woman, have a baby? Just didn't make sense. Historically there is nothing more significant than this moment in Zechariah's life. He is prepared for it, and God uses him in spite of his disbelief. He can do this because Zechariah is one of his children. He doesn't turn away from God's angel, only from what the angel says. God handles that kind of disobedience. He disciplines those he loves. Creativity comes easily for God when he uses logical consequences to discipline his children. Zechariah, the man of questions and debate, will lose his voice for nine months, while Elizabeth carries this child, announced and named by God, separated from the world for His service. God's discipline brought Zechariah's humility to the surface. He did not cover himself with his pride. And God did not abandon him. His relationship with God remained intact, grew much stronger I am sure, in the silent months that followed. Lord, keep from questioning you, even when I question what you say. Thank you for disciplining me, for discipling me, for molding and shaping me today. |
Zechariah is skeptical. For him, a Jewish priest for all these years, asking questions is as natural as drinking water. Everyone expects it of him.