Are You Still Asking?

In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both very old. (Luke 1:5-7 NIV)

Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. (Luke 1:11-13 NIV)

"Your prayers have been answered," said the angel. Zechariah and Elizabeth were both very old. At what point do you think they had stopped praying for a child? In their thirties? Forties? Certainly menopause would have made them give up their hope. Well, I would have lost hope by then...maybe long before.

What took so long? We're they unworthy of the answer?

No. The verses above state clearly that Zechariah and Elizabeth both were blameless before the Lord.

I don't know that that could be said of me.

So, why now? Did God forget about them, then make up for it by sending an angel? No. Our God doesn't roll like that. He knew all along. 

He was waiting. Patience, my daughter and son. It isn't time yet.

Time for what? 

For all things to be ready.

All the neighbors were filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things. Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, “What then is this child going to be?” For the Lord’s hand was with him. (Luke 1:65, 66 NIV)

The Lord loves to come through after all things point to the impossibility, and dramatically reveal the miracle!

He puts it all together...

John the Baptist

Mary and Joseph

Caesar on the throne, and the census

The new star, the wise men

The choir of angels