Zechariah and Elizabeth’s deep disappointment and discouragement.

In the midst of their despair, God shows up.

 “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”  Malachi 4:5-6

God was preparing Zechariah for Christmas.

Zechariah’s song of faith.  vv. 67-79.

Take Home Idea:  Even in our disappointment and despair, God is preparing us for the hope of Christmas, “God with us”.