Reading: Luke 1:5-9
Key Takeaway: Our prayers and worship are a sweet, fragrant offering to God, and we are so fortunate to be able to be in His presence without restriction.
My notes/observations of the passage:
In these times, God’s people – the Jewish people – were under Roman rule.
Zechariah & Elizabeth were both from priestly backgrounds and Zechariah still served as a temple priest. Both were righteous before the Lord and lived holy lives, but were still unable to fulfill their desire of having children. It now seemed impossible in Elizabeth’s old age. She was likely post-menopausal, physically unable to have children.
It’s important to note that these two were righteous and in good standing with the Lord, and their infertility was not about punishment and unrighteousness.
One day, Zechariah was chosen by lot to offer incense in the usually off-limits Holy Place. With the large number of priests in the lottery pot, this was an honor that was likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
What a gift that today, Jesus has made it possible to be intimately near to God. The Holy Place is the altar of our hearts, and we can always offer the fragrant and beautiful incense of prayer and worship. We can always offer the living sacrifice of our bodies.
Our worship and prayer is a sweet smell to the Lord, counteracting the sin of the world.
Father, help us to worship you in our bodies, soul, and spirit daily, to bring a sweet aroma of sacrifice to You. Instill in us a sense of security that we will always be able to be with you and worship you, and nobody can take that away. Even when our earthly bodies cease to work, we go to be with You in Heaven where there is no more pain and sorrow.
Jesus: You’ve truly paid it all so we can have it all. Teach use how to live in this reality. Thank you Lord. Peace, wisdom, love, and hope forever and ever. Amen.
Sindy Hankins 