Morning Moments

Now that we are approaching what we know as 'the Christmas Season" let's focus on the events leading up to and surrounding the Incarnation. It may seem a little strange, but it was not until the third century that emphasis was placed upon the birth itself. By that I do not mean The Incarnation, but the baby in the manger began to be emphasized then. It is important for us to remember that the "manger scene" is but a prelude to the Messianic Sacrifice. He came to die! He indeed was God manifest in the flesh, but we must remember that the CROSS was His mission, not the CRADLE. The cradel was simply the Miraculous Means for the Majesty Messiah to become one of us. More of that later, but for now let's look at the birth of John the Baptist.

Read Lk 1:5-25; 57-80

I. The Background Lk 1:5-25
A. The Parents “Zechariah & Elizabeth”
Every direct male descendant of Aaron was automatically a priest. There were divided into 24 sections. Only at Passover, Pentecost and the Feast of Tabernacles did all the priests serve. Not only was Zechariah a descendant of Aaron but Elizabeth also belonged to the lineage of Aaron. Because of the number of priests, one might live an entire lifetime and never burn incense, which was chosen by casting lots. Our Sovereign God caused all to happen according to His plan.

B.The Problem “barren”
Obviously, these two never stopped praying and believing about having a child. It was bad enough to be barren, but to be a priest from and have a wife from Aaron made matters even worse. But what an encouragement for us to observe their marital relationship. They were of one spirit, the way Father intended.

C. The Prayer “heard”
We are sometimes very impatient regarding answers to prayer, but God always knows what He is doing, and why He is doing it. We must, in the words of Dr. Chou, “pray and obey.” I think of the old marine slogan, "Yours is not to question why; yours is but to do or die." Are we that persistent to prevail?

D. The Promise “children…will…turn”
This is a quote from the last sentence of the Old Testament. God always fulfills His promises, but His timeing is equal to His truth. Oh how I would to God that we in our generation were rearing a generation who turn their hearts toward their Maker instead of Materialism.

E. The Proof “mute”
This same cherub had appeared to Daniel in 8:16 and 9:21. What do you need God to prove to you? He said, "Prove me now..." which means test Him and be assured He will pass the test. Can you find ONE broken promise from Him? Can you find just one time when He was not faithful? NO! So why doubt? What He said He WILL do is as good as done. By the way, He said He is COMING! Get ready!

PRAYER: Thank you Father that you always can be counted on. You are never too early nor too late. You are always right on time. Just as Your timing was perfect for that night in Bethlehem, Your timing is right to RETURN. May You find us faithful.