God Does The Impossible (Zechariah & Elizabeth)
Overview
Welcome to St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, where faith and beliefs shape our community. In this article, we'll explore the biblical story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple chosen by God to witness the impossible becoming possible.
The Miraculous Promise
Zechariah and Elizabeth were both righteous and devoted to God, but they were also childless. One day, while Zechariah was serving as a priest in the temple, an angel appeared to him, announcing that Elizabeth would conceive and bear a son. This news seemed impossible to Zechariah, as both he and Elizabeth were advanced in years.
Zechariah's Doubt and Silence
Struggling to believe the angel's message, Zechariah questioned how this could happen. As a result, the angel struck him mute, making him unable to speak until Elizabeth's son was born. Zechariah's silence became a powerful symbol of the faith required to trust in God's promises, even when they seem unimaginable.
The Birth of John the Baptist
True to the angel's words, Elizabeth conceived and gave birth to a son. This son, named John, would later be known as John the Baptist, a messenger preparing the way for Jesus Christ. John's birth exemplified God's ability to accomplish the impossible and fulfilled His promise to Zechariah and Elizabeth.
Lessons of Faith
The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth teaches us several important lessons. Firstly, it reminds us that God's plans often defy human logic and expectations. Despite Zechariah and Elizabeth's age, God showed that nothing is impossible for Him.
Obedience and Trust
Secondly, their story teaches us the importance of obedience and trust in God's timing. Zechariah and Elizabeth remained faithful to God's commandments and trusted His promise, even when it seemed unlikely.
Fulfillment of Prophecy
Additionally, Zechariah and Elizabeth's story fulfilled the prophecy of a messenger preceding the arrival of the Messiah. John the Baptist played a significant role in preparing hearts for the coming of Jesus, and his birth assured the fulfillment of God's ancient promises.
Application in Our Lives
As followers of Christ, we can draw inspiration from Zechariah and Elizabeth's story. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when circumstances appear impossible. God's faithfulness and ability to accomplish the unimaginable continue to resonate in our lives today.
Trust in God's Timing
In seasons of waiting or uncertainty, we can find solace and strength in trusting God's timing. Zechariah's period of silence serves as a reminder that God's promises are worth the wait, and His plans are far greater than our own understanding.
Embrace God's Possibilities
The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth challenges us to embrace God's possibilities, even when circumstances seem impossible. Their son John became an influential figure in the biblical narrative, impacting countless lives through his ministry.
Conclusion
The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth reflects God's capacity to accomplish the impossible and reinforces our faith in His promises. At St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, we celebrate the transformative power of faith and beliefs, reminding ourselves and our community that God's wonders are limitless.