Advent Reader: Divine Intervention and Unexpected Answers to Prayer

Luke 1:5-25

As we read Luke’s account of the birth of John the Baptist, I’m struck and convicted by several aspects of this story.

Verse 8 describes the priest, Zechariah, going about his normal routine in the Temple, and yet God clearly intervened, in the form of an angel. As we go about our daily rhythms and busy or mundane days this Christmas time, are we alert and expectant of God’s voice and divine intervention?

John the Baptist is described that he will be a ‘joy' and will 'bring many to God'. As messengers of God, I wonder which adjectives people use to describe us? This Christmas season, are we intentionally bringing people to God?

Elizabeth demonstrates a faith despite the obvious obstacles. She believes that God is able to act beyond her circumstances. I’m challenged when I read this, to lift my eyes up to a God who is bigger and more powerful than my limited understanding and perspective. Which bigger and bolder prayers do we need to pray this Christmas time and as we start a new year?

Verse 25 reminds us that God doesn’t just answer prayers, he meets our deeper unsaid and unseen needs. God doesn’t just bless Zechariah and Elizabeth with a baby, but he heals the deeper pain of feeling ostracised and shamed by the community. As we give gifts this year, we can pray that God will give us insight into the deeper unseen needs of those around us. Ask for His favour, blessing and restoration on those around us, that all with know Jesus as our true Saviour.