Reflection
Today's readings offer an intriguing contrast. In Numbers, we encounter the strange story of Balaam, a pagan prophet hired to curse Israel but compelled by God to bless them instead. In Luke 1, we see the announcement of two miraculous births that would change human history – John the Baptist and Jesus Christ.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God's purposes prevail despite human opposition, and His unexpected interventions fulfill His promises in ways that often surprise us.

Let's break this down into a simple principle we can apply:

Trust in God's sovereign purposes, even when circumstances seem to contradict His promises.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Recognize divine interventions: Like Balaam's donkey or Zechariah's angelic visitor, God may be trying to get your attention in unexpected ways. What unusual circumstances might God be using to speak to you?

2. Embrace divine timing: Elizabeth and Mary both experienced God's perfect timing. Is there an area where you need to trust God's timing rather than rushing ahead or giving up?

3. Speak blessings: Though hired to curse, Balaam blessed Israel. Choose to speak words of blessing over someone today, especially if you've been tempted to criticize them.

4. Respond with faith: Unlike Zechariah who doubted, Mary responded with faith to the angel's message. In what area do you need to respond to God with "Let it be to me according to your word"?

5. Guard against temptation: Israel fell into sin through Balaam's later counsel. Identify an area of vulnerability in your life and take a specific step to strengthen your spiritual boundaries.

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: How can you more fully trust God's purposes when they don't align with your expectations or when His timing seems delayed?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. These passages remind us that God works in unexpected ways to fulfill His purposes. Whether through a talking donkey or through the wombs of two unlikely mothers, God demonstrates that nothing will prevent His plans from coming to pass. Until tomorrow, may you walk in the confidence that comes from trusting in God's perfect purposes and timing.