I’ve often thought of the way Mary responded to the angel who came to inform her that she would carry Jesus in her virgin body. She simply asked how this could happen when she’s a virgin…which is a very natural question. But then she accepted it and moved on in faith. Let it be unto me as you have said, she replied. I’m amazed every time I consider this.
Then I think about Zechariah, the father of John. The angel came to him and informed him that his wife would have a son. He couldn’t believe it because his wife was old…a far easier task than a virgin becoming pregnant. You know the rest of the story; he was mute until John was born and needed a name. I wonder if it was possibly because the angel knew he’d struggle to remain believing. I can’t say because we aren’t told.
It’s so interesting, these two stories.
Mary found it more believable that she could conceive without intimacy, than Zechariah could find it believable that he and his wife could conceive late in life.
Isn’t it a wonder?!
Right now, I’m struck with one glaring difference. When we are younger, it seems like we believe anything could be possible. Unfortunately, when people get older they often lose that same belief.
Oh Lord, please don’t ever let me lose the wonder of it all. Help me to always be willing to believe.
I would far rather be silent, than unbelieving.
Do you remember the saying, “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all.”? I think we would be wise to remember this as we grow up. If we can’t believe the miracle, then we can at least stay silent and allow God to move in spite of our unbelief.
The older I get, the more I see the value of silence. Many of us simply talk too much. I know many who are so desperate to be heard, whether right or wrong, that they just cannot seem to shut up.
Today I ask you to go before the Lord and inquire of Him. Ask if you have aborted any of His works in your life or the lives around you, with you own tongue. Ask Him to examine your heart and show you any parts that are bent on unbelief. Then repent and decide today…to believe no matter what. Or to be silent. Believe or shut up…for lack of a better word. It’s just that simple.
The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So, the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For the word of God will never fail.” Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. Luke 1:35-38
Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was He Who sent me to bring you this good news! But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.” Luke 1:18-20
365 Days in the Presence 