Counting the Days: December 23, 2023
Jake Patterson ’22, ’25D, SPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him Zechariah after his father. But his mother said, ‘No; he is to be called John.’ They said to her, ‘None of your relatives has this name.’ Then they began motioning to his father to find out what name he wanted to give him. He asked for a writing-tablet and wrote, ‘His name is John.’ And all of them were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, and his tongue freed, and he began to speak, praising God.
Reflection
In the tapestry of our lives, God weaves threads of promise and purpose. Often, we question our purpose, find ourselves yearning for the fulfillment of His words, and eagerly anticipate the answers to our prayers. Yet, nestled within the narrative of our journey is the lesson of God’s perfect timing and the fulfillment of His promises. The miraculous birth of John the Baptist, as recounted in Luke 1:57-66, is a beautiful demonstration of God’s ability to bring forth life and follow through with his promises—even amid what most would deem impossible. Elizabeth and Zechariah were elderly and had struggled to bear their prophesied son, John, for some time. God’s promise of a son was met with skepticism, specifically by Zechariah; yet, defying all odds and in God’s perfect timing, the angel Gabriel’s words came to fruition. Zechariah’s faith in God was put on display. Although made mute for initially doubting the prophecy, he remained obedient and reinforced his wife’s decision by writing, “His name is John.” The prophecy was fulfilled, granting Zechariah the ability to speak again and signifying a forerunner’s calling. This moment is a powerful reminder that our Heavenly Father is in the business of orchestrating miracles, especially in moments that seem barren and devoid of hope.
Where in your life do you long for God’s promises to be fulfilled? Are there moments when impatience or doubt creep in? Embrace the truth that God’s timing is perfect, and His promises will be fulfilled in the appointed season. Reflect on the barren areas of your life—those places where you’ve felt a lack of growth, joy, or purpose. Just as God transformed Elizabeth’s barrenness into a source of joy and blessing, invite God to transform your life. Trust in God’s timing and believe that God can bring forth new beginnings and unexpected joys.