“One day, Zechariah’s priestly order was on duty and he was serving as priest. He was chosen by the casting of lots (according to the custom of the priesthood) so the honour fell upon Zechariah to enter the Holy Place and burn incense before the Lord” (Luke 1:8-9)

Zechariah is a noble example of how to serve God even when your desire has not been met. Yesterday, we learnt that Mr and Mrs Zechariah “were both righteous before God, living virtuously and following the commandments of the Lord blamelessly” (Luke 1:7). Though they had an agelong unmet desire, Zechariah continued to serve as a priest. One duty for a priest was to “enter the Holy Place and burn incense before the Lord.” It was a duty for one person at a time. Everyone desired to do it because it was an honourable service, so they would cast lots to choose who it would be. Zechariah partook too! Even at his old age (and though childless), he remained passionate about his service to His God.

Such excellence in this work of the Lord and Luke 1:11 would reveal that one day, on this day of his service: “All at once an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing just to the right of the altar of incense.” Where he served was where God’s angel stood with God’s word. 1 Corinthians 15:58 exhorts us: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” Zechariah served not ‘because of’, but for who ‘God is.’ Father, teach us to serve You for who You are. Amen.

#goodmorning

BeEncouraged❤ Freely Received. Freely Give