The Christmas story is not a story of convenience, but rather a story of interruption. God intervenes not always according to our plan and our timing.

Bottom Line:

God was not just intervening into the lives of Elizabeth and Zechariah, He was setting a course of events that would ultimately lead to the Messiah.

-this shouldn’t really be possible

-this would be laughable to many

-this is a consequence for his lack of faith, but it is also so much more

-this protected the news from Herod who would feel threatened by the news of someone preparing the way for the Messiah

-this forces Zechariah to depend fully on God

1. “When Zechariah saw him [the angel], he was startled and was gripped with fear.” Luke 1:12

2. While fear is a logical response, it cannot be our default response, especially for those who are in Christ.

1. “Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” Luke 1:18

2. Fear and Doubt are ultimately about putting my focus on ME. Instead God is intervening and inviting me to put my focus on HIM.

In the midst of uncertainty, invite Him in. He keeps His promises. He doesn’t bow to human rules and expectations. He is not limited by time and circumstance. Even in the interruptions we can say, “Come Jesus”.