Elizabeth’s Joy

 One can only imagine what Elizabeth felt when Zechariah

returned home and shared his story of encountering the angel at the temple. The angel had told him that God had heard his prayer. Elizabeth his wife would bear a son.  Zechariah had doubted the angel’s words and would be mute during the time of her pregnancy.  So even to tell Elizabeth what occurred he had to write it out and explain that in all these years of waiting and wanting a child, it was going to happen! From years of heartache and searching for a child to love to a moment of wondering why her at this time?  For years Elizabeth had been empty and hope had been lost.

There are many who might find themselves empty today. Empty because of grief and mourning the death of loved ones; empty because of a loss of job, or even empty as no money is present.  But in spite of the emptiness Elizabeth experienced she still had faith in God. She served God and her disappointment changed to joy.

Often we think we deserve more as students= high grades, as workers= more money; as people in general- more happy. In spite of these ideas of whether you deserve something better or not- it is up to you to make changes. Elizabeth was disappointed for many years that she did not become a mother. God heard her prayer and the beginning of the story of Christmas was starting to unfold. After long years of waiting God planned that Elizabeth’s son would be the one to announce the Messiah. John would be the one to prepare the people for Jesus. God’s time might not have fit with Elizabeth as an older mother, but his timing was perfect for all.

We read in Luke 1:57-58   “When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. Her neighbours and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy.”

No longer was Elizabeth outcast from her friends. She was now a mother to an infant and she was filled with joy.  She could relate and talk with the women of her community and they were so glad for her and Zechariah. 

Elizabeth’s life was changed because God answered her prayer and she would become a mother. Her son John had a divine purpose to play in preparing the people for the Messiah. Her role was significant as she would raise John to know and love God.  One can imagine her joy as she became aware of her responsibility.

As people of faith, where do you find joy? Prayerfully and hopefully, you are able to find joy in what matters most. Circumstances in our lives change. How might you change to search for the joy you need and know? God knows you and loves you. Pray to God and ask how you might share in the knowledge of how you live a joyful life!

PRAYER

God of grace and love we know you love us, show us your way to love others. Enable us to experience joy and hope as we await Christ’s coming.  Hear our prayers as we share with you our thoughts, concerns, joy and hope. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.