Precious Gift

They have no children, because Elizabeth was barren; and they were both well along in years (Luke 1:7).

Scripture: Luke 1:5-20
Song: "Happy the Home When God is There"

Married for three years, both were in their late 30s. Although they were anxious to start a family, pregnancy eluded them. As a last resort, they tried in vitro fertilization. But when that failed, the doctor asked, "Would you consider adoption?" Instead, they traveled to another hospital in another state. And nine months later they becaome the parents of a beautiful, eight-pound baby girls.

The in vitro procedure was expensive, exhausting, and risky. Yet the happy couple says, "It was worth evey cost, every obstacle. We are so thankful for God's goodness."

Zechariah and Elizabeth, dutiful servants of the Lord, had longed for, and prayed for, a child. But time had passed, and perhaps they had resigned themseves to being childless. Can you imagine Zechariah's astonishment and disbelief when the angel of the Lord appeared to announce their desire would be granted? And this child would be a key player in God's redemptive plan, preparing the people for Christ's coming. This couple too offered thanks for the goodness of God.

Prayer: Gracious God, praie to You for the children among us. May every parent be reminded this day: how precious are these gifts! Through Christ, amen.

- taken from 365 Devotions by Standard (Pocket Edition)