December 16

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:72-73; Psalm 105:7-11; Isaiah 43:1-3; Hebrews 3:1-6

Zechariah’s song takes us back to the Old Testament promises. All the names in Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story remind us of the character of God. Elizabeth means “the oath of God,” which draws us back to God’s promises through Abraham and the Prophets. Zechariah means “God remembers,” which also calls back to His covenant with His people, going all the way back to Adam and Eve. Then John means “God is gracious” or “God’s grace,” which reminds us of our undeserved favor with God. Zechariah was confident that the Lord was carrying this out in his lifetime, and that he would witness it firsthand. What a blessing that would have been. While you and I aren’t seeing it the way Zechariah was, we can still marvel at the work that the Lord does. What’s neat is that He uses people like you and I to accomplish that. Have you prayed today? If not, start with this: “God, where do you want to use me today?” Pray these words today and see what the Lord has in store for you.