In this season of Christmas, we often find ourselves grappling with questions and uncertainties. The sermon from Luke 1, titled The Questions of Christmas, delves into the stories of Zechariah and Mary, two pivotal figures in the Christmas narrative. Their encounters with divine messages challenge their understanding of God's plan, offering us valuable lessons on faith, doubt, and trust. These lessons remind us that even amidst our uncertainties, God remains faithful, and His purposes are unshaken.

Zechariah's Skepticism: A Lesson in Doubt

Who Was Zechariah? Zechariah, a devoted priest, faithfully served God and His people. Despite his righteousness, he and his wife Elizabeth faced the deep heartache of childlessness in a culture where children were seen as a blessing from God. When the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah to announce that Elizabeth would bear a son, this long-awaited promise should have sparked uncontainable joy. However, Zechariah's response revealed a heart wrestling with doubt.

Zechariah's Question Zechariah asked, "Whereby shall I know this?" (Luke 1:18). His question came from a place of skepticism, rooted in his human perspective and the seeming impossibility of the situation. He sought tangible proof, a sign to confirm the angel’s words. While understandable, this doubt demonstrated a lack of trust in God’s power and timing.

The Consequence of Doubt Zechariah’s doubt led to a temporary consequence: he was rendered mute until the fulfillment of the angel’s promise. This silence became a powerful sign, both to Zechariah and to those around him, of God’s faithfulness despite human hesitation. However, it’s crucial to note that Zechariah’s doubt did not derail God’s plan. Elizabeth conceived, and their son John the Baptist would later prepare the way for Jesus. This story serves as a reminder that while doubt may hinder our experience of God’s promises, it cannot thwart His sovereign will.

Mary’s Faithful Inquiry: A Model of Trust

Who Was Mary? Mary, a young virgin from Nazareth, also received a divine message from Gabriel. Her situation was equally extraordinary and fraught with challenges. The angel’s announcement that she would conceive and bear the Son of God was both a blessing and a call to immense responsibility. Mary’s response, however, stands in stark contrast to Zechariah’s.

Mary's Question Mary asked, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" (Luke 1:34). Unlike Zechariah’s question, Mary’s was not rooted in doubt but in a desire to understand. She sought clarity about her role in God’s plan, fully believing in the promise but asking how it would come to pass. This distinction highlights the difference between questioning God’s ability and seeking guidance in obedience.

The Power of Faithful Questions Mary’s question led to an explanation from Gabriel about the Holy Spirit’s miraculous work. Her response, "Be it unto me according to thy word" (Luke 1:38), demonstrates a heart of trust and surrender. Mary’s faith-filled inquiry shows us that God welcomes our honest questions when they stem from a desire to align with His will. Her example encourages us to approach God with humility and trust, even when His plans surpass our understanding.

The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness

God’s Response to Doubt and Faith Both Zechariah and Mary received profound revelations of God’s plan, yet their responses highlight contrasting attitudes. Zechariah’s skepticism resulted in a temporary barrier, while Mary’s faith led to immediate acceptance and action. Despite these differences, God remained faithful in both situations. He fulfilled His promises, demonstrating His patience with human frailty and His ability to work through both doubt and faith.

The Role of the Holy Spirit Gabriel’s explanation to Mary emphasized the central role of the Holy Spirit in accomplishing God’s plan. This reassurance gave Mary the confidence to embrace her calling, even amid uncertainty. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives today, providing guidance, comfort, and assurance as we navigate the unknown. By relying on the Spirit, we can find the strength to trust God’s purposes and take steps of faith.

Life Application

Embracing Faith in Uncertainty The stories of Zechariah and Mary offer timeless lessons for navigating our own uncertainties. When faced with questions about God’s plan, we have a choice: to respond with doubt like Zechariah or with trust like Mary. This Christmas season, let us bring our questions to God with hearts open to His guidance. Whether we struggle with disbelief or seek deeper understanding, our inquiries can draw us closer to Him.

Questions for Reflection

1. Are your questions to God filled with doubt or faith?

2. How can you turn your doubts into steps of belief?

3. In what ways can you seek a deeper understanding of God’s plan for your life?

Challenge for the Week This week, take a step of faith in an area of uncertainty in your life. Bring your questions to God in prayer and ask for His guidance. Be willing to act on His leading, even if the path seems unclear. Let your questions become an act of worship, drawing you into a deeper relationship with Him.

Conclusion