Thurs.’s Devo - The Birth of Christ in Us

Read: Luke 1; John 1:1-14
We crossed into a new month and into a new dispensation in the Word. Jesus arrives on the scene and everything changes. Christmas is here! There was no magical sheet that came down from heaven or audible voice that told the world they were entering into the New Testament. In fact, most of the world still lives in the Old Testament and its laws, and will be judged by its laws according to Romans 10:5. The verse ahead of that says that “Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believes.” The key is believing.
Luke begins with the story of Zacharias and Elisabeth. Zacharias’ name means “remembered of Jehovah”. Elisabeth means “God of the oath or God of seven.” God remembered his promises and the time was now. Seven means complete so the time of the law had run its course and it was complete. It was time for a new covenant to be ushered in.
Zacharias was the high priest that year and it was the Day of Atonement or the Feast of Tabernacles. He was in the Holy place at the table of incense when he was visited by Gabriel. He was told that he and Elisabeth would have a son named John. He would be the next Elijah and would prepare the hearts of the people to receive the Christ. Because Zacharias lacked the faith to believe it, he was mute till John’s birth.
Six months later, Mary received a visit from Gabriel, (which means to prevail against) and she is told some shocking news also. Though she is engaged, she is going to be pregnant with the Christ, by the Holy Spirit. She had some questions, but she believed and gave God permission to use her.
God asks us the same question he asked Zacharias and Mary, “will you prepare the way for my coming and will you allow me to be birthed in you?” Zaccharias had gotten hardened through the ritual of church and wasn’t looking for God to do anything different. What came out of his mouth was doubt and unbelief. Mary was fresh and alive in her walk with God so what came out of her mouth was scripture that was alive and active.
Lord, may we be like Mary that is awake and looking for you to move. Use us to bring forth your kingdom.