PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 1:21-25
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“He has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” (Luke 1:25)
Both Zechariah and Elizabeth were good people in God’s eyes (1:6).
And yet the people around them looked down on them (lit. to blame or revile).
I am impressed by how humble and strong Elizabeth is, after years of shame.
She sees God as finally showing favour to her – unlike the people.
The problem here is not that God was punishing them.
For whatever reason, known only to God, they did not have children… yet.
But in everyone else’s eyes that was reason enough to shame them.
People can be so cruel; this has not changed through the centuries.
How many people throughout history have lived in disgrace and shame.
Through circumstances beyond their control, through horrible life situations.
And the ‘holier-than-thou- religious people turn their noses away from them… sinnners.
I am so thankful that God does not operate like humans do.
Through Jesus we see God choosing the outcasts and the ‘sinners’ (Luke 15:1-2).
I hear the Spirit of Jesus asking me, ‘who are the sinners I look down on?’
PRAYER
Lord, you are gracious but we are not. Shock me enough with your grace for me, that I cannot help but be gracious to others who do not deserve it like me.
Sometimes I wonder what is happening to some people. Why are they the way they are? Yet when I get to know them them I realize there is a lot more behind a crusty exterior or a deeply critical attitude. The people wondered about Zechariah and they were probably critical of them but especially Elizabeth of being childless – probably thinking it was their decision to not have children. Yet we learn it was Elizabeth’s desire and she suffered the disgrace of her people. She was secluded before she became pregnant – but now after 5 months she would break her seclusion and people would know. The truth comes out. Help me not to judge people, Lord – help me not to profile – but see the best in all people!
Be still.
Listen.
Listen for the voice of the Lord saying, This is the way. Walk in it.
Zach certainly was still when God spoke to him and remained quiet in His presence until what was spoken – happened.
And Elizabeth, although reproached by the people knew that the Lord God was with her.
Open my ears Lord that I may continue to hear You speaking, seeing You as I continue to walk in Your SonShine.
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
To see You high and lifted up
Shinin’ in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy