Christmas And Faith by R. H. Clark
Zechariah was a Jewish priest who lived in the hill country of Judea with his wife Elizabeth. They were old and had no children, but they were a righteous couple and were careful to obey all the Lord’s commandments and regulations. While it was Zechariah’s turn to serve in the Temple he was appointed to burn incense in the sanctuary. He was standing on the right side of the incense altar when an angel of the Lord appeared to him and said that God had heard his and Elizabeth’s prayers for a son and it would be granted to them.
Zechariah was scared. 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 1:8-13)
I think Zechariah might have preferred to name the baby “Zeke Jr.” But of greater importance was that Elizabeth was too old to have a child (Luke 1:18-20) and Zechariah was a godly man who doubted.
Mary’s Doubts
Now let’s look at Mary, the mother of Jesus. I believe that she was between 16-19 years old and must have been devoted to the Lord. She was not a priest nor married to a priest and had limited education, but she has an angelic visit (Luke 1:26-37). Mary asked a question that sounded very much like Zechariah’s question. However, she isn’t doubting, she just wants to know how.
Now Mary shows her faith (Luke 1:38). No doubt that she knew the public ridicule she would face, but chose to submit to God’s will.
So what’s the point?
Zechariah looked at God’s promise through his earthly understanding while Mary chose to see with her spiritual eyes. Her understanding was based on her faith rather than earthly knowledge.
That’s a lesson for us. Our earthly knowledge can tell us something is impossible, but our faith-based knowledge can show us that nothing is impossible with God.
With Christmas approaching, let’s remember that to many the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is so much foolishness. To those of faith, Jesus is the gift of all gifts. He is “the way, the truth, and the life.”
Let’s remember the true meaning of Christmas because the Cross and the empty tomb overshadowed the lowly manger that night.
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