Day 20 The Reality

Day 20 The Reality

12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. Luke 2:12 English Standard Version

Over the years I’ve painted a comfortable patina over Christmas. I read the stories, watch the movies, listen to the carols, look at the lights, trim the trees, wrap the presents, eat the snacks (far too many), and bask in the memories. I enjoy the season. I always have. Every year I look forward with great anticipation to this time of year. It is the high point of my year. In the repetition, I lose some of the wonder. In the lights and business some of the gritty, not so pleasant details slip past me. I forget that participation in this great unfolding drama meant significant turmoil for the individuals concerned.

Zechariah, an old man, serving in the temple was visited by an angel, not some little rotund cuddly cherubic form. No, this was a powerful, mighty messenger of the Lord. We get no details regarding his appearance, but it did not inspire joy in Zechariah. Instead, he felt great fear. He knew from the history of his people that his life was about to change and change from God normally meant discomfort of one type or another. And this time was no different. Before the meeting was over, Zechariah would find himself dumbfounded and then struck dumb. 

Participation in God’s grand story normally means some sort of dislocation. He simply meddles in our affairs. He’s not content to leave us where we are. As with Zechariah, He has a better, bolder future planned. Of course, Zechariah and Elizabeth yearned for children. But, as a sixty-year-old, I don’t know if I’d be up for raising an infant. Thinking of all the sleep interruptions, diaper changings, baby spit-up on my favorite shirts, running after a naked toddler bent on escaping, and a myriad of other tasks leaves me exhausted. But that was God’s plan, the message delivered by the angel. So, Zechariah stumbled forth, unable to speak, and another line in the great redemption tale was penned. I wonder what odd role God has for you and me in the continuing unfolding of His story.