You, My Child
Zechariah has not been able to speak for nine months. When the angel told him that he and Elizabeth, in their old age, would conceive and bear a son and name him John it was just too much. Zechariah must have been overwhelmed. And because he doubted the angel would not let him speak until his son was born.
Zechariah had to wait to speak to after the naming of his son. Remember, he confirmed the name John by writing it on a tablet. Then he could speak. If you could not speak for nine months what would be your first words? And what if you were holding your first-born son for the first time, what would you say?
Zechariah said, “You, my child, shall be called prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare His way.” I remember holding each of my children and grandchildren for the first time. I did not call any of them a prophet, but I did wonder, what will this child be?
As they grew up, we developed a game. They loved to dream about what they would become or do when they would graduate school and go to work or college. One day I joined in their game. As a parent I recognized various qualities, skills, and talents that they did not think they had. So, my futuristic descriptions of who they would be, what occupation, type of husband, number of children was much more detailed.
It also pointed out to them talents and skills they did not think they had. That was probably the best. Zechariah saying his son would be prophet of the Most High, think of that a minute. This is a baby. This is really God working in His mysterious way. How else would Zechariah offer this prophecy?
Think of your children and grandchildren today. What will they be? Then pray asking God to bless them for what they need in this life.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and if the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen