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Advent Devotional for Wednesday, December 9
• Luke 1:67-79
In this text, Zechariah joyfully sings a song of praise to the Lord, God of Israel. Why is Zechariah filled with such joy? Let us examine his circumstances. Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, were old in age. Elizabeth had been barren for years. Despite their hardships, they were careful to obey God’s laws in spirit, as well as in letter. They prayed for a miracle and God answered their prayers at the appointed time. Zechariah received a visitation from an angel of the Lord, telling him that Elizabeth would have a son. But, Zechariah failed to believe the message.
How often do we respond with disbelief when God informs us that our breakthrough is on the way? At times it might be difficult for us, especially when we operate in our human nature, to receive a prophetic message from the Lord. Regardless of our circumstances, God is able to activate miracles with our name on it. Once activated, it will reach us in due season!
Because of disbelief, Zechariah suffered from a judgement of muteness for a season, but soon he would rejoice. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah sang a song of praise, thanking God for answered prayers and divine revelation. Praises flowed from Zechariah’s mouth like rivers of water. Zechariah praised God for being a covenant keeper, a protector from their enemies, and for his child. Zechariah ended his song of praise magnifying God’s Sunrise, the One who illuminates each day with light from above. Jesus Christ is The Sunrise.
As we journey in life, we may encounter challenges that seem unbearable—chronic health conditions, deadend situations, difficult relationships, financial pressures or even social prejudices, but don’t give up—pray without ceasing. No matter how dark the situation, look to The Sunrise, Jesus Christ our Savior.
During this season of Advent, let us be mindful to praise our loving God, who is sovereignly answering our prayers. With hearts filled with gratitude, let our songs of praise be lifted high as we anticipate the return of our Savior, Jesus Christ—who is The Sunrise, The Light of the world, our Horn of Salvation, and our Redeemer.
Come Holy Spirit, rain on us. Come Holy Spirit; fill us until we want no more. Let us repent and prepare the way of the Lord so that humankind can be saved through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Cheryl Wilson
MDIV Student from Austin, Texas
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
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