Luke 1:5-7 “In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah, and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.

Lord, these old bones just don’t move the way they used to anymore. It’s a good thing I have others to help me with many of the chores around the house, even if it does feel a bit crowded at times. So many eyes on my husband and me. But, it does free me up to spend more time in prayer with You. And I do have so much that is heavy on my heart. This weight I’ve carried around for so many years, this empty womb that is dead within me, draws me constantly to prayer. Yet, I don’t even know what to ask You for any more.

When we were young and newly married, we had such dreams. Zechariah was on his way as a young priest beginning his ministry and I, a young woman, was ready to create a home for my handsome husband and our family. Zechariah was revered as a high priest and our home was open and gracious to visitors. But month after month, no children came. No son with dark hair to serve You like his father. No daughter with sweet curls to sew and cook with me.

Months turned into years and no matter how much we prayed, still nothing. Then came the whispers behind my back. The jabbing questions that pondered how holy this high priest and his wife really were, if the Lord had chosen not to bless them with offspring. What have they done to draw this curse upon them? It is hard to continue holding up my head.

Lord, tomorrow Zechariah begins his time of service in the temple again. I’m sending him with my prayers as well. They are prayers as mixed up as my mind and heart. Prayers for strength to endure the whispers. Prayers for acceptance of Your will for our family. Prayers of thanksgiving for all the blessings You do provide for us and the love of Zechariah, who is a Godly man. But Lord, I will ask just one more time, if You see fit, give us a child. A child who will be loved beyond all measure and will be raised to serve You. Please, Lord.

Reflection Questions: Have you ever waited a long time for a prayer to be answered? How did you handle what seemed to be a “No” from God? How does Elizabeth’s faithfulness inspire you to stay faithful even when life doesn’t make sense?

Prayer: Lord, give me the faith of Elizabeth, to turn to You even when it feels like You are not listening. Help me to believe that You have a plan for me and I can rest in that promise even before I understand that purpose. Amen.