December 01, 2023: Do Not Be Afraid

"But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John." (Luke 1:13, ESV)
 
You must admit that to be in a room all by yourself, minding your own business, and suddenly someone else is with you, that must be somewhat troubling. But look at how caring this angel is: "Do not be afraid." So many things that God calls people to do are frightening. They are scary because they are bigger than us. Someone once told me that if it is impossible to do, it must be God. God is the God who makes the impossible possible! Doing the impossible is how we make Him look great!

Zechariah and Elizabeth are both old and barren. Yet God sends an angel to tell them they are about to be pregnant and that their son shall be called John. Amid Zechariah's fear, listen to all the comfort the angel gives: "And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth," (Luke 1:14, ESV).

What seems impossible and scary to Zechariah is surrounded by and wrapped up in joy and gladness for him and Elizabeth, and not only them but all who know them! This announcement by the angel sets the stage for a move of God about to take place in the earth. What is God speaking to you?