Take My Word For It (Luke 1:5-25)

Here's a tip:  If you ever meet an angel named Gabriel, whatever you do, don't doubt him.  Especially if he is relaying a message from God.  Really steams him.  

Of course...that may have something to do with the fact that his very name, Gabriel, means "One who stands in the presence of God."  Turns out guys like that take a word from God very seriously.  

Let's say Gabriel comes to tell you that God will, at long last, give you and your wife a son.  Not just any son, but a very special son who's name will be spoken in connection with the greatest ancient prophets and who will prepare the way for the coming of God's own Son.   You cast doubt on the message just because of a trivial little thing like the fact that you recently took up residence at Mount Olive Assisted Living Facility.  

Fair enough. But also, fair warning: You can count on this angel, who has been standing in God's presence for heaven knows how long and who has never seen God's words fail--ever, to be...less than enthralled with your protestations.  And rest assured:  The punishment will fit the crime:  "You did not believe a Word from God?  No problem.  You will have no words of your own until the Word from God comes to fruition."  

Which, sure enough, it did.

WHA? OH! THAT Prayer! Luke 1:5-25

Do not be afraid, Zechariah.  You're prayer has been heard.... 

We've just been told that this old priest, so dutiful as to take the time to maintain his membership in "the priestly Division of Abijah," and so fortunate as to be chosen for temple service, has a barren wife and is himself "well along in years."  But fear not, old fellow.  God has heard your prayers for a son....  

Which...just begs the question...

What prayer?  

I mean, if you're old, and your wife is old, wouldn't you have stopped praying for a son a long time ago?  

Which...just begs another question...

So what?  

It may take years for God to answer.  His answer may come when time, as we reckon time, has long past.  Yet, as was the case with Zechariah, God's ultimate answer to your perhaps self-serving prayer may be answered with greater spiritual significance that you could have possibly imagined.  Perhaps incredibly more, as Ephesians 3:20 reminds us. 

Grant me, oh Lord, steadfastness--stick-to-it-iveness--when it comes to approaching you in prayer.  Because of Jesus, Amen.