Read: Luke 1:57–66
Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free,
and he began to speak, praising God.
Luke 1:64
At last, John is born to Elizabeth, six months before Jesus is born to Mary. Friends and family rejoice for this long-awaited day. Not until the eighth day, when John is circumcised and named, is Zechariah finally able to speak. We’ll look at both circumcision and baby naming when we get to Jesus’ birth. For now, we see that this is the point when everyone is expecting the newborn son to be named for his father or grandfather.
Apparently, Zechariah has already conveyed to Elizabeth the news that God has chosen John as the baby’s name, so she tells the eager audience the same. Can you imagine there might be a dramatic pause at this moment as everyone looks at each other and at Elizabeth? Maybe there is skepticism, criticism, and a judgmental attitude present. Perhaps they think Elizabeth is not speaking for everyone, so they look at Zechariah.
Only when he affirms John’s name in writing is Zechariah then able to speak—and not just speak, but praise God! As you can imagine, this story spreads throughout Judea, and the people ponder the future of this special child.
A couple of reactions are worth mentioning. First, the people of the area are in fear as a result of this news. Specifically, this is a reverential awe for the God they worship. He has just done an amazing thing. Second, they keep in mind what has just happened, for surely this means that something special is in this child’s future.
As Zechariah is liberated from his mute condition, let us ponder the miracle-working power of God. Whatever affliction you or a loved one may be enduring right now, take comfort that one of two things will happen if you are a believer. One, God may heal you in this present life; or two, He will heal you in the life to come. Take comfort that you serve a healing God who loves you, cares for you, and will restore you physically, just as He has already done spiritually. Our infirmities and weaknesses are temporary and are confined to this life.
What I also love about this part of the Christmas story is that Zechariah is restored by the Lord. How many of us have had to learn a lesson the hard way? How many of us have doubted that He will act? No doubt Zechariah received a heavy dose of humility and spent much time in silence prior to John’s birth (maybe Elizabeth appreciated this part too!).
After a period of discipline, God brought back Zechariah’s voice. With a repentant heart, God will restore us into a right relationship with Him after we stumble. Let’s find great peace in this truth.
