Knowing The Word in Luke 1:18-23, Gabriel and Zechariah

We first saw Gabriel in the Book of Daniel. Now he has returned, bringing news to Zechariah. Zechariah asks for a sign from God that Gabriel’s announcement is true, and he gets one. God has been silent for 400 years. Now Zechariah will be silent for nine months until his son, John, is born.

18 And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 21 And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. 23 And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home.

Spend some time in silence before the Lord and listen to him. Keep your mind focused on God, not speaking to him but listening for him to speak to you. Prayer should always include a time of listening to God.