In this very powerful, personal and emotional prelude to the arrival of Jesus into our world, Zechariah reminds us that Christmas is all about faith. The events unfolding can only be perceived by faith, as Zechariah is visited by one of God's heavenly messengers. Zechariah at least has faith to recognize his visitor for who he is.

“When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid"' (Luke 1: 12-13).

Yet the message is also to be received by faith. In response to Zechariah's lacklustre response, the angel says:

“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).

Let's not be too harsh on Zechariah. Yes, it is not the desired response, but faith can be hard. When was the last time that we did anything that required faith?

Lastly we see that the gifts of God are to be enjoyed by faith as well:

"The Lord has done this for me," Elizabeth said. "In these days he has shown his favour and taken away my disgrace among the people" (Luke 1: 25).

Faith is expressed in Elizabeth's words of worship. May these same words be the expression of ours: The Lord has done this for us (taking the form of man)! He has shown His favour and taken away our disgrace (sin) through the Lord Jesus Christ!

Christiaan Hofstra