Text: Luke 1:1-80
It just seems as if Luke 1 was filled with 'say what?' moments.
Luke 1:5-25: The angel Gabriel appeared to Zacharias, while he executed the priest’s office before the Lord in the temple, and says, Fear not, Zacharias, for thy prayer is heard (Luk. 1:13). Say what? For I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. Shortly after Elisabeth, his wife, gave birth to their son John - he would pave the way for Jesus.
Luke 1:26-56: The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and said, behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a Son, and shalt call His name Jesus. Say what? According to Jewish tradition, Mary probably was in her early teens. She was already engaged to her fiancé, Joseph, but had not been with him intimately. This would certainly be a complicated issue to explain publicly. The angel also revealed that her cousin, Elisabeth, was pregnant. Mary made arrangements to go and be with her cousin. Surely she could make sense of things. Upon entering her cousin’s home, the Holy Spirit moved on Elisabeth as her baby leaped for joy. Say what? What a greeting to the unborn Savior!
Luke 1:56-80: Earlier in the chapter we learn that Zacharias was made mute by the angel Gabriel, because of his unbelief. Thou shalt be dumb and not able to speak…because thou believest not my words (v. 20). Say what? Zacharias had to wait until the baby was born, the rites were performed, and the baby was named (John as the angel had said), before he would ever speak again. When Zacharias was able to speak, he broke out in praise before the Lord.
God uses 'say what?' moments to remind us of HIs sovereignty. He is in control of all things.
Has God done anything truly wonderful for you? May the Holy Spirit move as you reflect on His goodness. May your spirit be lifted with joy and excitement over that which God has done.
Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. - Revelation 15:3
Prayer
Father, my spirit leaps for joy at your greatness. Though sometimes I may not understand your ways, you are in control of all things. Amen!