A Thrill of HopeSample

My young son recently watched a time-lapse video showing a butterfly emerging from its cocoon. With wonder, he described how the cocoon hung still, until suddenly, the butterfly broke free and spread its large colourful wings for all to see. It was a moment of surprise for him.

God often unfolds events in our lives in ways more surprising and beautiful than we could ever expect.

In this passage, Elizabeth gives birth to John after years of waiting and wondering. But it’s clear this birth is something more than just a celebratory family moment. Neighbours are drawn in. Strange things align. Zechariah is suddenly able to speak again. People are left wondering “What then will this child be?” (Luke 1:66, ESV)

That question echoes the promise of Isaiah 40:3 (ESV): “A voice of one calling in the wilderness…” This child, John, would grow up to be that voice. His life would point people toward the coming of the Lord. And it all began in a quiet village with people wondering what God was doing.

The Lord’s hand is often quietly at work, preparing something far greater than we can see in order to accomplish His purposes. What may begin in small and unseen ways can, in time, unfold into something that brings Him great glory.

Today, ponder this: Where might God be quietly at work in your life right now, preparing something far greater than you can yet see? Could it be that the quiet and unseen places in your life is where God is doing His deepest work?