Core Truth: While young Mary might have been excused for doubting the angel Gabriel’s incredible words to her, she said what the aged Zechariah should have said – “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord: may it be done to me according to Your Word.” And because he permitted his doubts to short-circuit his faith he had to sit in muted silence for nine long months.
Scripture: Luke 1:18-20 New Living Translation (NLT)
Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.”