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Abigail's
Newsletter |
December 2, 1999 |
| Elizabeth supported her husband, and with him, they "were upright in
the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commandments and regulations
blamelessly." (Luke 1:6) God had a wonderful plan for Zechariah and Elizabeth. They
stood together and followed God, even though they were barren. Children were a wonderful
blessing, that God had not provided for them... yet. But then He shows his favor (v25) and
Elizabeth goes into seclusion for more than half of her pregnancy (v24). I think that
Elizabeth used her time of seclusion to praise God, and take care of herself, her new
child, and her husband. |
Then, Elizabeth feels favored even more, when Mary comes to visit,
pregnant with the Lord (v43). and she is filled with the Holy Spirit (v41). But through
all these strong emotions, and wonderful happenings, she still remembers her husband.
Everyone tried to dissuade Elizabeth that John cannot be the baby's name, because it is
not a name in their family. But she does not waver, and Zechariah confirms their decision,
and is finally able to speak again. Can you imagine your husband not speaking to you for
nine months? The whole time she was pregnant, and she still loves and supports him. |
"When his (Zechariah) time of service was
completed, he returned home. 24After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant
and for five months remained in seclusion. 25"The Lord has done this for
me," she said. "In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace
among the people." 39At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in
the hill country of Judea, 40where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted
Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb,
and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." Luke 1:23-25, 39-41 (NIV) |
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December 8, 1999 |
| Without ultrasound, and even hundreds of years before conception, the
birth of Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God, was foretold, and awaited with anticipation.
There are many references in the Old Testament to Christ, his conception, birth, life and
heritage. And we are His descendants, His children, called by His name. Can you imagine
Mary's anticipation? She must have been filled with joy, but also fear. How would Joseph
react? What about her parents, and her village? Would anyone believe her? |
Mary spent time with Elizabeth, and stayed to welcome John into their
family. I can imagine it eased her heart to be at John's birth, and witnessing the miracle
of birth. I was fortunate to be a labor coach for a friend when I was expecting my first
child. After witnessing her birth, I felt at peace, knowing that I could be a part of
God's miracle at the birth of my child. Mary was blessed in a very special way, and
Joseph also. Remember the blessing which God provides for you: for two to become one. |
"Then Isaiah said, 'Hear now you house of David! Is it not enough to
try the patience of men? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14Therefore
the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth
to a son, and will call him Immanuel.' " Isaiah 7:13,14 "But the angel said to
her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31You will be with
child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.' " Luke
1:30,31 |
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December 14, 1999 |
| What wonderful wisdom God has supplied through His Word. By meditating on
his word, there is more wisdom than in the world (v. 99) but the wisdom does not end
by just learning His Word, but living it, obeying His commands (v. 100). So many have lost
the vision of the goodness of God's laws and precepts. Many see them as the limits to
their own freedoms -- so many things they cannot do. But God's words are not bitter, but
full of sweet flavor (v. 103)! Have you tasted the sweetness of God's Word? I know that
I find it difficult to spend time reading the Bible and meditating on His Word. I find
busyness in being a wife and mother. |
God loves you (and me!) so much that he has blessed us with His Word to
guide us in everyday living. It is not up to me to learn the precepts to apply them to my
husband or my children. I must learn them, write them on my heart, and obey them in my
actions. I can show others the love of God, by obeying Him. Because we live in a fallen
world, born with a sinful spirit, this is not easy. We are only human. But God will
provide a way. We not only have God's Word to light our way, but He has sent the Holy
Spirit to live within us, and guide us in understanding and in truth. May God bless you,
so that your love may show to your husband. |
"97Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on
it all day long.
98Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me.
99I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes.
100I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts.
101I have kept my feet from every evil path so that I might obey your word.
102I have not departed from your laws, for you yourself have taught me.
103How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong
path."
Psalm 119:97-104 (NIV) |
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