Luke 1:11-15

Zechariah was a Priest in the Temple in Jerusalem. He was from a long line of Priests, and his wife, Elizabeth was a descendant of Aaron, Moses’ brother. (Who were Preists as well.) They were an older couple who had never had children. The Priests had jobs in the Temple that they drew lots for. Zechariah was there to burn incense to God for a week.

So, he’s just in the sanctuary doing his job when this Angel appears. I think he probably looked human, but in verse 19, he identified himself as Gabriel, so he was an arch angel. He was probably huge and since he just appeared, I would probably be scared too!

In case you aren't familiar, this baby, John, grows up to be John the Baptist. He is the person who prepared hearts for Jesus. (And Jesus's cousin.) I think Gabriel was saying not to be afraid because of his appearance AND because of what John’s role in the world would be. (Also, the part about him being filled with the Holy Spirit before birth might have sounded scary. It sounds somewhat normal to us, but it was not to them. Jesus had to go to Heaven so the Holy Spirit could come to earth for us all.)

Angels have always interested me. I have read many books about them. I think if I had a visit and conversation with one, I might be afraid too. What would you do?