When I got up to walk the dog this morning and spend some time praying, it was cool outside. Wonderfully cool. North wind. 65 degrees. Big bright moon. And how appropriate on the first cooler morning of the fall that I crack open the Bible and read the Christmas narrative.
Zechariah and Mary each encountered an angel. Zechariah and Mary each had a message from the Lord to them about their forthcoming kids. Those babies both came and did so in perfect time. However, that's where the similarities end.
Zechariah questioned the angel from doubt. "How can these things be...?" Mary questioned from faith: "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" (1.34). Even Elizabeth commented about her faith and willingness to trust what God had said to her (v.45). Zechariah was struck mute until John was born and circumcised. Mary got to sing a song.
There is a way to question God that's filled with faith and seeks understanding but doesn't dishonor Him. There's a way to deal with Him honestly and authentically that allows greater intimacy. There's even a way to bring unbelief to the relationship that is an act of faith (Mark 9.24).
Take God at His Word and give your life to Him.
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