The Birth of John the Baptist – Part 2 – How Can This Be? Luke 1:18-25
In our lives, we encounter instances where we simply can’t comprehend the Lord’s actions. We pray for such interventions, and when He does, we’re surprised. This is our sinful tendency, our doubting and worrying nature, that we must fight against. Zacharias questioned, “How will he know for certain?” Perhaps having an angel appear and share this great news would be enough. However, let’s not be critical; we have the word of God and its truth and promise, yet still doubt, worry, and fret.
As many of us do, he examined his circumstances. He was old, and his wife was advanced in years (vs. 18). That’s a kind way of saying she was old too. We must admit that many of us find ourselves faithful only in circumstances that are understandable. When I refer to faithful, I don’t mean you aren’t a true follower of Christ; you and I simply allow our circumstances to dictate our faith and practice. We shouldn’t.
What seemed impossible to Zacharias wasn’t impossible with God. Even an angel’s revelation of what was about to happen overruled that. Our minds aren’t infinite; we can’t comprehend miracles within our own limited understanding.
Gabriel responded (vs. 19-20) to Zacharias’s doubts. He answered his question by stating that he had been sent to speak to you and bring you this wonderful news. As we contemplate this text, the news that was shared was great and not bad. However, his doubts overshadowed the facts. God didn’t break His promise, but in a blend of consequences and joy, He would be unable to speak.
The Scripture clearly states that he didn’t believe. This may seem harsh, but the truth is that if we don’t act in faith, it’s considered sin—essentially not believing in God. I know Romans 8:28 and believe it, but when it came to applying that to my life during a health crisis, I worried and fretted. I’ve often said it’s easier to quote than believe. It’s not an excuse; it’s our struggle with the flesh. We have the sure and steadfast word of God to hold onto and trust.
The punishment of Zacharias wasn’t just for him to witness God’s work; it was also for others. When they were expecting him to return, he didn’t, and when he couldn’t speak, that was enough for many to realize he had seen a vision. It’s incredible when God does something in our lives that many will witness. It’s rightly so; they should.
This certainly affected Elizabeth as well. In that culture, not being able to bear children was often shamed upon women. However, she acknowledged that God had been favorable to her. In other words, God’s kindness was upon her, and her shame was no longer. What a glorious God we have that uses us and is merciful to us!