Strong in Spirit: Building the Faith of Children
The wilderness, often a place for divine encounters in Scripture, became John’s home. It was here that he grew in spirit, his character forged by solitude, prayer, and the presence of God. His diet of locusts and wild honey and his simple camel’s-hair garments spoke to a life of dependence on God, free from the trappings of materialism. The wilderness was not merely a physical location but a spiritual crucible, preparing John for a ministry marked by boldness, humility, and integrity.
As Christians, we are also called to grow strong in spirit. Just as John’s time in the wilderness was vital for his mission, we must embrace seasons of waiting and refinement, trusting that God is shaping us for His purposes. This Advent, as we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth, let us reflect on how we can grow in faith and strength, preparing our hearts for His work.
The Silence Is Broken: Faith in Action
The room held its breath. The tablet bearing the words, “His name is John,” had stunned the gathered crowd. The statement was loud and clear but not a suggestion—it was an act of obedience. Suddenly, a miracle happened. Zechariah’s silence was broken. After nine months without speaking, his voice rang out strong and clear with unrestrained praise.
Zechariah had been silenced because of his doubt, but in the stillness, his faith had grown. Now, with his heart filled with faith and committed to God’s promises, he uses his first words to bless the Lord. The same God who closed his mouth had now opened it in response to his obedience. Naming the child John—as commanded by the angel Gabriel—marked a profound transformation in Zechariah. Faith and obedience had unlocked his freedom.
Signs in the Silence: A Listening Ear And A Growing Faith
As Zechariah’s tablet revealed the name John, a wordless, wide-eyed wonder spread through the room. The whispers rose again, questions darting from one person to another. Why John? What could this mean?
But in the midst of the commotion, imagine the quiet moment shared between Zechariah and Elizabeth. Their eyes met, a knowing smile exchanged. Elizabeth, proud of her husband’s courage, and Zechariah, grateful for her steadfast faith. In their shared obedience, they had honored God’s will and proclaimed His work to their community.
The Song for Generations: Finding Faith and God’s Mercy in Waiting
Mary’s song celebrates the enduring mercy of God. God is faithful and his faithfulness has never wavered. Even when His people failed, He remained steadfast. The hymn, “Great is Thy faithfulness,” encourages us, “morning by morning new mercies I see” and Lamentations 3:22 declares, “His mercies never end.”
Take a moment to reflect on the mercy you’ve experienced in your life. Wake every morning expecting to find new mercies for the day. These moments are reminders that God’s mercy is not bound by time or circumstance. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
The Humble Servant: Faith in the God of the Impossible
Mary's faith is a model for us. She believed in the impossible because she believed in the God who can do all things. Her humility reminds us that true servanthood is rooted in obedience, even when the path is unclear or the cost is high. It's not just about believing but about living out that belief in obedience to God's will.