DAY 2 – Zachariah and Elizabeth
“Both of them (Zachariah and Elizabeth) were upright in the sight of God, observing the Lord‘s commandments and regulations blamelessly. But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren; and they were both well along in years.”
Luke 1:6-7
When my wife and I decided it was time for kids, we assumed it would be quick and easy. It turned out to be a challenge. We started looking for explanations. What was the problem? Who was the problem? We saw our doctor. We ran tests.
I imagine Zachariah and Elizabeth in a similar place.
When you’re in that place, there can be a temptation to point fingers of blame or to let some tiny seed of bitterness take root.
Apparently, the conclusion was that the issue lay with Elizabeth. She was “barren“, which meant their dream of a family was dead; the family name would end here. And on top of the emotional toll is the social and societal shame and “reproach“ of being childless: a heavy burden, no doubt.
But wait, they are “upright in the sight of God and blameless“. Isn’t God supposed to bless them and give them the desires of their hearts? (Psalm 37:4) Isn’t this a contradiction? Isn’t this unfair?
Inward: Father, what do you want me to know?
I think it’s reasonable to assume that Zachariah and Elizabeth had many honest conversations with God about this heavy burden over the years—conversations about fairness, blame, disappointment, and the question: why?
Imagine yourself in their place for a few minutes. What questions would arise in you as you carry this burden? Write them down.
Outward: Father, what do you want me to do?
Write a short, honest prayer about your thoughts, feelings, and questions.
