Elisabeth Bore John, and Zacharias Testified

“And he shall go before him in … spirit and power… to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:17).

Elisabeth and her husband, Zacharias, “were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord” (Luke 1:6). Yet, despite their faithfulness, they were unable to have children. How do you show faith in God’s promises even when you aren’t experiencing blessings as you hoped?

Scriptures and Questions

Luke 1:5–25, 67–80

Compare Zacharias’s words before he couldn’t speak and after he regained his speech. What did Zacharias learn? What can you learn from Zacharias’s experience?
Luke 1:39–66

After Mary learned that she would be the mother of the Son of God, she visited her cousin Elisabeth, who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy. How did Mary and Elisabeth support each other? Consider how you, your friends, or your family support each other.

“Mary and Elisabeth Rejoice Together”

Record your impressions.

Song

“Joy to the World,” Hymns, no. 201

Activity for Children

When Elisabeth and Mary were waiting for John the Baptist and Jesus to be born, they helped each other. Stand in a circle. Toss a ball or crumpled piece of paper to someone else in the circle. When the person catches the ball, they shout out a quality of a good friend (like kind, fun, or thoughtful).

Service Ideas

Tell a loved one they matter to you.
Visit with an elderly neighbor.
Invite others to a Christmas celebration.