NOTE: This post continues a series of writings through the book of Luke. See the first post here.  

The “hour of incense” was a daily time of prayer in Israel. The incense burned by the priest provided an aromatic smoke that entered beyond the curtain to the Holy of Holies – a reminder that their prayers were a sweet-smelling gift to the Lord. Being “advanced in years” (1:7), Zechariah had been a priest for a while. There were 24 divisions of the priesthood, and apart from major festivals where all divisions served, each would have served for two weeks total each year. Given this tradition, there wouldn’t have been many opportunities for Zechariah to be chosen by lot to enter the temple to burn incense – possibly a once-in-a-lifetime event. But on this day, the Lord providentially chooses Zechariah and breaks His 400 year silence.

This account is another beautiful display of how the Lord uses a particular person at a particular time to bring forth His particular purpose through the prayers of His people. Something very personal to Zechariah would soon serve a greater purpose in God’s coming kingdom. The angel declares God has heard his prayer and in spite of Elizabeth’s barrenness, she will become pregnant! This intimate answer to prayer would not only bless Zechariah and Elizabeth, but would bless all people by preparing the way for Christ to come. What a gift!

As we wait, often painfully, for our pleas before the Lord to be answered, may we still offer them. May these daily requests not become a stale routine, but remind us that they are sweet-smelling sacrifices to our loving God and Father – a Heavenly Father who hears and visits His children.