For Zechariah this news of his son being born and being greatly used by God was too much for him to take in (v18). When Zechariah questions the angel his response is to give his credentials (v19). The one who stands in the presence of God will not lie.

Gabriel says that Zechariah will now be unable to speak until John is born because of his lack of faith (v20). Outside the people were wondering why Zechariah took so long (v21) and when he came out they understood something special had happened (v22).

Being in the presence of the Lord is where amazing things can happen. How much do we miss out on by neglecting coming into God’s presence as much as we should.

God’s promises came through for Zechariah and Elizabeth (v24-25). For this elderly couple they felt shame at not being able to have children although of course it was not their fault. We need to pray for and be sensitive to couples who don’t have children. Sometime sit is their choice but often it is not and great pain can be their experience.