Someone on Instagram shared a Christmas tradition. They encouraged their followers to read one chapter from the book of Luke daily until Christmas. My husband and I decided to do it. This article will contrast the responses by Mary and Zechariah to the angel of the Lord.. Let me know what you think.

Luke 1 is rich with detail. Dr. Luke is orderly, telling the unfolding stories within. And there are 2 “hows” from the stories that interest me. And maybe you will glean some helpful information from my analysis.

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The first how is Zechariah’s (verse 18).

Beginning in verse 11 onwards, Zechariah was comforted by the angel of the Lord. Then shared that God had heard his prayer and continued with the big news. Verse 18 reveals Zechariah’s incredulous response. Gabriel then released a verbal rebuke about Zechariah’s imminent future. Regret soon swallowed up every ounce of Zechariah’s doubt. Just in case you think his consequence harsh, scripture confirms his unbelief.

Verse 20 – “And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens because you did not believe my words

The second how is Mary’s(verse 34).

After Gabriel conveyed the most excellent news, Mary accepted Gabriel’s comfort for her troubled spirit and believed the message. While she is amazed and wondering how it will happen, her question carries no doubt. Her question is not about the news but the process. And in verses 35 and 36, Gabriel graciously answers her questions! Even in verse 37, the angel declares it will be. And Mary falls in line and accepts the news gladly.

Verse 38 – “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”

Even Elizabeth understands Mary’s heart on the matter.

Verse 45- Elizabeth later spoke, “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

I see a contrast. The angel of the Lord, Gabriel, visited both people—one a temple worker and the other an ordinary girl. I wondered how an ordinary girl was prepared with her appropriate response in contrast to the older servant who displayed no indication of cooperation. Regardless, God worked His plan to bring in the Savior of the world and the forerunner of His earthly ministry.

But does God care how I respond to His surprise announcements? Based on the reading, I would say He does. A consequence of daily discouragement came forth from Gabriel for Zechariah. Mary got her questions answered and had a nice visit.

So what are we to learn? Did Mary have her morning quiet time the day of her angel visit that made her more ready than Zechariah? I have my morning quiet time every day and miss opportunities to display my belief in God. Zechariah was in the temple. Some might say it was a perfect place for a spiritual encounter, yet he missed his opportunity with no do-over.

Ultimately, this story is about God and His glory. But regarding my response, my heart is the issue (Matthew 22:37). We believe with our heart, and that is where God is looking (Ephesians 1:18, John 14:1, Romans 10:9-10). I’m not speaking about the modern mantra “follow your heart.” When we see situations through God’s eyes, we see with belief. If I look at my situation only through my human lens, and I’m not on the Lord’s side about His plan, then that’s a problem.

Mary sang to the Lord at her news. Her response overflowed with belief. Mary’s praise and songs displayed her heart. Like cheering lifts a defeated athlete, I’ve learned praise and singing bolster my trust and confidence in God’s plan, too. Even though Mary had the most important assignment of all time and eternity, it was her belief that makes her an example. Not a sliver of doubt is in her. We can’t dismiss Mary’s excellent example or Zechariah’s bad one just because of their magnitude. God’s Word is alive and has something for you and me to apply.

God trusted Mary to bring His Son into the world. She adjusted her heart to His heart and was glad to be a handmaiden of the Lord. Belief is paramount to our Christian faith. Every assignment the Lord has had and will ask in the future requires our cooperation in belief.

If you’ve read to the end of my article, I hope you’re encouraged in your belief about what God can and will do. But if you need a boost and an increased yearning to believe God for whatever He asks, keep reading.

There is nothing like a biblical activity to give you hope. Take time to spend with the Lord. Spend a few minutes in the Bible. Write these verses, pray them to God, and memorize them: Galatians 2:20, Romans 4:20, Hebrews 11:6, Romans 1:17, Habakkuk 2:4, and others.

And tap the link to read my blog written several years ago about Scripture Writing here https://valerierumfelt.com/2019/09/29/scripture-writing-now/ It is one spiritual activity that brings me instant peace. I don’t care how out of sorts I am. The peace I receive gives me the traction to grab hold of faith. Then belief grows as I place my life in God’s hands again. And I know He will do what He says He will do in His Word.

Neither person in these true stories knew that one day, all of us would celebrate the birth of Jesus each year. He is the most glorious reason to celebrate. Let the season find you with belief about who He is and what He will do. And sing a song of praise to Him who is worthy.

©️Valerie Rumfelt

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