“I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news” (Luke 1:19).
Zechariah is incredulous. There is an angel standing by the altar in the temple telling him that he will soon have a son.
The angel Gabriel is incredulous, too. Zechariah isn’t buying it. He wants more assurance that he isn’t seeing and hearing things.
I think it’s fascinating to consider what we believe and what we don’t believe. Way too many people fall for the lies of scam artists and phishing emails, willingly giving up sensitive information like social security and credit card numbers. But when God says something, we’re dubious. God’s Word quickly raises questions like, “Are you sure? How do I know I can trust you?”
The argument quickly comes to an end when Gabriel calls an audible. Or more accurately, an “inaudible.” Gabriel must have had the authority to take the message one step further when he says to Zechariah, “you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time” (Luke 1:20).
Jesus was right when he warned us about those who come to kill, steal and destroy. We should be very cautious when someone promises us wonderful things. Unless that someone is the Lord, who comes that we might have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10).
How would your day go differently if you simply took Jesus at his word without reservation?
Thank you, Lord, for your messengers and your message which gives me life. Amen.
Waite for it... 