December 5, 2024

Luke 1:57-66  (HCSB)
The Birth and Naming of John
57 Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she had a son. 58 Then her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her His great mercy, and they rejoiced with her. 59 When they came to circumcise the child on the eighth day, they were going to name him Zechariah, after his father. 60 But his mother responded, “No! He will be called John.” 61 Then they said to her, “None of your relatives has that name.” 62 So they motioned to his father to find out what he wanted him to be called. 63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote: HIS NAME IS JOHN. And they were all amazed. 64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God. 65 Fear came on all those who lived around them, and all these things were being talked about throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard about him took it to heart, saying, “What then will this child become?” For, indeed, the Lord’s hand was with him.

Terri Noah
God’s promise never returns void. He is faithful to do what He says He will. Just as promised, Elizabeth delivers her son and everyone rejoices.... until....they find out his name. It is common today for children to be named after beloved family members, but in Zechariah and Elizabeth’s time it was a given that the child’s name must follow those of the family. But John’s new parents were faithful to God’s instruction. Just like the price for disobedience, there is great reward for faithfulness! Zechariah’s speech was restored, and he immediately used his voice to praise God! Today I challenge you to think of something in your life where God’s faithfulness is clear and use your voice to praise Him.