Speak Up

In past years, it seemed to be a common occurrence I would develop something upper respiratory then lose my voice right before the Christmas cantata. What terribly timing! Zacharias was silenced for a period of time because he "questioned" God's message to him about the coming birth of John, his son, John. When Zacharias was finally able to speak, speak-up he did - did he ever! "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, because He has visited us and brought Redemption to His people, and He has raised up a horn of Salvation for us in the house of David His servant - just as He promised ..." (Luke 1:68-70a). Why do you suppose Christians are so unwilling to give praise to The One Who is Most Merciful and Most Giving?  A priest and knowledgeable of God's words, Zacharias knew God's Promise of One Who would "shine upon those who sit in darkness" (V.79) - Jesus, Messiah!  While there may have been a little stutter-step for Zacharias, he held high the Name of Jehovah as he looked to The Cross - to Jesus, God's Son and Salvation - Redeemer of our Redemption.  How about it: will you speak-up this Season, and tell of His Greatness?  Tell it and tell it with Great Joy!