Series: Jesus- Son Of Man [#1]
GOD’S PERFECT TIMING
Luke 1:1-25
Introduction:
I pray that each of you had a great Thanksgiving. 2 Sundays ago, I finished a 4 year Sermon Series from the Book of Acts and all of the letters that Paul wrote. After the Service, Karen asked David and D’Linda for prayer because I become a bit grumpy when starting a new Series. As I have been praying about this for weeks, the Lord led me to the Gospels. I have been reading through the Gospels and while we were flying back from Kansas City, it hit me- The Gospel of Luke. Luke wrote the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. The Gospel of Luke starts with the Christmas story, and today is December 1st- What a perfect time to begin our Series, “Jesus- Son Of Man”.
Luke 1:1-4
Luke was a Physician, and he wrote like a trained Physician- Observant, with attention to details. Tradition suggests that Luke was from Syria, from the city of Antioch but trained as a physician in Alexandria. Tradition also suggests Luke was single and remained unmarried until his death at the age of 84. Luke was a historian. He was not an eyewitness to the events, so he relied on the testimony of eyewitnesses and the written sources available at the time. He thoroughly investigated, compiled and arranged the material and presented it to “Theophilus” (which means Friend of God). Luke spoke to those who had seen for themselves.
In our fast-paced World, we often find ourselves wrestling with impatience, wanting things to happen in our own timing. However, God’s Word reminds us that God's timing is perfect. In Luke 1:5-25, we encounter the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple who experienced God's perfect timing in the midst of their struggles. Just like the 5 Seasons of the year, (yes there is 5- Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring, and Hunting); we all go through different Seasons in our lives.
Luke 1:5-7
The Season of…
1. Waiting.
Zechariah and Elizabeth had lived righteous lives but faced a long season of waiting for a child. This waiting was not just a few months; it was many years filled with unanswered prayers and deep longing. How many of you can relate to their season of waiting? Whether it’s for a child, healing, a job, or a relationship, waiting can be challenging.
In our waiting, we must remember that God is at work, even when we can’t see it. He uses these seasons to prepare us, grow our faith, and develop our character.
Luke 1:8-20
The Season of…
2. Doubt.
When Zechariah was visited by the angel Gabriel, he struggled to believe the message due to his age and Elizabeth's barrenness. His doubt led to a moment of silence, (both literally and metaphorically) as he questioned God's promise. Doubt is a natural human response, especially when we’re faced with impossible situations. Even the most faithful among us can experience moments of doubt, just like Zechariah did.
It’s important to bring our doubts to God. Instead of being discouraged by them, we can use them as an opportunity to deepen our faith. God’s power is not dependent on our understanding but on His plan.
Luke 1:21-25
The Season of…
3. Fulfillment.
Finally, after the silence came the fulfillment of God's promise. Elizabeth conceived, and although she had suffered shame and disappointment, her Season of barrenness gave way to blessing. God’s timing led to the miraculous birth of John the Baptist, who would prepare the way for Jesus. The Season of fulfillment isn’t always immediate, but God will deliver on His promises. Elizabeth and Zechariah's story teaches us that His timing often aligns perfectly with His purpose.
We must anticipate God’s blessings even while we wait. He may be preparing us, orchestrating events behind the scenes, or shaping our hearts to receive the gift He has in store for us.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, let us remind ourselves that life’s Seasons are in God’s hands. The Season of waiting, the Season of doubt, and the Season of fulfillment are all part of His perfect timing. Trust that God is engaging with your story. He is aware of your circumstances, and He works in ways we often cannot see. Let us remain hopeful and faithful, knowing that His plans are always for our good and His glory.
