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Luke 1:62-66 says, So they made signs to his father - what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, "His name is John." So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, "What kind of child will this be?" And the hand of the Lord was with him.
Zechariah and Elizabeth's intimate encounter with God forever changed them. Elizabeth, well past childbearing years, gave birth to the sweet baby boy God had promised. Can you imagine the joy that wrinkled old couple felt? Both had prayed for years for a son. It was culturally expected that every Hebrew woman be a mother and it was Elizabeth's dream to be a mother. Finally the baby arrived.
Zachariah and Elizabeth could have disobeyed God's instructions but, instead, they broke tradition and named the boy "John" just as the Lord had commanded. Years of baroness coupled with the strains of having a child in such a miraculous way could have driven this couple apart. Instead, they stayed bound as one and were determined to direct any glory to God and not to themselves. In turn, they were quickly rewarded. After nine months of silence, Zachariah's tongue was set free and he began praising God.
Both Zachariah and Elizabeth were forever changed after their intimate encounter with God. After their encounter with God nothing would ever be the same. What is God calling you to do? What promises has He made to you? He is true to His Word. He will remember!
Used by permission from NewSpring Church
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