One of the many things Christmas teaches us is that God has a plan and that He uses people to carry it out. While Christmas centers on Christ there were many people involved in His coming to earth. Here we are reminded of John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, and his parents–all played a role and all were important. The plan was set in motion when Gabriel announced to Zacharias that he and Elisabeth would have a son and that his name was to be called John.
When the time came to name the child some of the people opposed the name. It appears that they first protested to Elisabeth and then to Zacharias. Both refused to compromise and stuck to the plan God had revealed. Considering the difficult ministry that lay ahead for John, their example was greatly needed. If ever a child needed a lesson in courage it was him. There is no way to over estimate the value of their example. All three of these were a part of God’s plan and all were willing to fulfill their role. Are you?
Success may be defined as discovering and doing the will of God. It might be difficult and dangerous, but we aren’t excused from duty. To do it takes commitment. There will be times when people will question, oppose, or try to resist you, but you must not quit. Playing our part in God’s plan is serious business and we must not fail. Whatever work calls you to, do it with unwavering loyalty and a cheerful attitude. What you do might appear unimportant to others and you might not even see the significance of it, but it is important none the less. Do it!—HDS
