God's Holy Fire: 'Filled to Prophesy'

When the angel Gabriel told Zechariah that he and Elizabeth would have a son, Zechariah originally doubted. Why would God give them a son in his old age, especially with Elizabeth's inability to conceive even during her childbearing years? However, even in their old age, God miraculously worked to bring them the gift of a baby - a baby we know as John the Baptizer. Because of Zechariah's disbelief, his voice was silenced by Gabriel, the angel of the Lord he experienced while serving in the temple. Zechariah’s voice did not return until after he signified that his new-born son's name was to be John. Then Zechariah, inspired by the Holy Spirit, prophesied and spoke of John's glorious work to prepare the way for the Messiah and of God's fulfillment of his promise to bring salvation to his people (Luke 1:62-79). Jesus' coming was proclaimed by far more than shepherds and angels; his coming was repeatedly announced, facilitated, guided, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This same Holy Spirit lives in us to remind us of Jesus' life and his words (John 14-16) and to transform us to be more and more like him (2 Corinthians 3:18). May the Holy Spirit fill us so that we will proclaim and demonstrate the character and compassion of our Lord!