Family Devotion Notes and Questions
Luke 1:68-79
Children’s interest in this prayer is based more on context than content. They are curious about the old priest who did not believe the angel who promised him and his elderly wife a baby and consequently was struck speechless until the promised child was born. They can imagine his silent excitement as he waited for the birth of the two special babies in his family and appreciate his burst of praise when John was born and his speech returned. They do have trouble following Zechariah’s praises, filled with abstract words and Old Testament images. When they know Zechariah’s story and are urged to listen for prayers about Jesus and about John, older children can catch occasional phrases.
CHILDREN: When do you think a person is old? How do old people change? Does God still use old people?
YOUTH: Zechariah was struck mute for questioning the angel of God. Do you think that was fair? What would you have done?
ADULT: Silence was Zechariah’s punishment which in the end proved his testimony. Where do we need to be more silent in our lives and listen long before we speak?