For 400 years, God didn't speak to Israel.  Then he sent an angel to tell an old priest that he would have a son who would prepare the way for God's Son.  This would be John the Baptist.  We can learn some lessons from Zacharias' actions and reactions to the unexpected.

A Faithful Priest (vv. 5-10)

Lesson #1 - God does His best work through ordinary people.

A Fearful Priest (vv.11-17)

Lesson #2 - When God interrupts our plans, it is always for His glory and our good.

A Faithful Priest (vv. 18-25)

Lesson #3 - God's delays are not necessarily His denials.

We have more of nearly everything but joy.  God promises joy, and we can discover and experience the same joy of the first Christmas today.

The joy of ____________________ from the Lord (vv8-14).

The joy of ____________________ the Lord (vv15-16).

The joy of ____________________ about the Lord (vv 17-19).

The joy of ____________________ the Lord (v.20).

The birth of Jesus brought a light that offers hope to a world of darkness.  The wise men followed a star to discover Jesus.  When we read their story, we discover three principles of hope.

Hope gives  __________.

Hope gives  __________.

Hope gives  __________.