December 13 The Christmas Gift of Speech – Luke 1：62-75

I recalled about two years ago, my daughter was still studying at the university. She was so upset and depressed because after she had done her research work and had to leave it aside due to the time limitation. The reason was she had to keep doing his supervisor’s work and left her no time to do her own. In such a situation, she would not be able to finish the thesis in time and to graduate. This had been going on for two years and saw no end of it.

My family was so worried about her health and general well-being. Then I talked to my church members and we all prayed about the incident. After two to three months, things began to change, her supervisor called up some of his students to help her work so she could start to work on her thesis. After twelve months, her thesis completed and submitted for examination and finally approved. Alleluia! She thanked God for helping her to complete what she had hoped for. But one thing was clear: she was praising God! It’s possible to have her heart break and be blessed at the same moment. This was that kind of moment. She was so happy and was in tears.

Gabriel the angel appeared to Zechariah and told him he would be the father of a great prophet “But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth.” (Luke 1:13-14)

Since they were elderly, he doubted it. That’s when Gabriel told him he would not speak “until the day this happens” “And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.” (Luke 1:20)

The baby was born. With his first words Zechariah praised God. “Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God. Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.”  (Luke 1:64, 68) Regardless of what we face this season, we can respond the same way. Thank You, Father, for the gift of speech. In my times of doubt, be with me to strengthen my faith and praise You.

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