Devotion
Two are better than one
David Jacobs

These verses may not seem extraordinary at first glance, but the story is one that caused others to marvel. Zacharias and Elisabeth have a son. Zacharias was deaf and mute at the time, but he was a priest that was well-respected in the community. After Elisabeth gives birth, the community waits 8 days to name the child in line with traditions. A local priest helps to name the child after his father, Zacharias, which would be an honorable name. Elisabeth interjects, saying that the boy shall be named John. This act of defiance alone would bring some shame to Zacharias, and I am sure the community must have been embarrassed for him in a way. He was a priest, unable to speak and name his own son, and now his wife denies the name that the priest and community chose for the boy? Denies the name of his own father?

This is where the story takes its marvelous turn. Zacharias, deaf and mute, asks to write something. Nobody in his name has the name John. He cannot hear his wife say the name as well. He writes on the tablet that his son will be named John. This is more than a coincidence! It is God's will at work.

You may have heard the phrase, "Go with your gut." Zacharias and Elisabeth trusted each other and, more importantly, trusted God to lead them to the right decision.

Prayer

Precious Lord, let me return to your word, again and again, for my daily bread. Although I may not always hear you, I am listening. Although I may not always praise you, I am speaking. Help me understand your message so that I may craft a response, singing your praises that echo for all of my life. Amen.