“Praise the Lord,
the God of Israel,
because he has visited
and redeemed his people.
He has sent us a mighty Savior
from the royal line of his servant David,
just as he promised
through his holy prophets
long ago.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:68-70‬ ‭

This is part of the praise song of Zechariah, father of John the Baptist who would prepare the way for Jesus. Zechariah hadn’t been able to speak for months as Elizabeth carried John, because he hadn’t believed that God would give them a son in their old age. 

But now, at the naming ceremony for John, Zechariah’s voice is restored and he immediately begins to praise God. His joy is complete. His faith is unshakeable. His hope has been redeemed. 

Sometimes we wait, through a long silent period, through a season of bitterness, through days of darkness. Sometimes it seems that the promise will never be fulfilled. But God is steadfast. His promises are true. His timing may be incomprehensible to us – but ultimately his timing is perfect.  

This Advent, may you know the joy of a promise fulfilled. May your silence turn to praise. And may you proclaim the joy found in the Saviour.