An angel of the Lord appeared to Zacharias to tell him that he was going to have a son. There would be three distinct responses to his coming. (1) John’s parents, Zacharias and Elizabeth, would “have joy and gladness” (Luke 1:14). What a joy it is when parents find joy in their children! But that is not the main focus here! (2) “Many” people would hear about John and “rejoice” at his birth and “with” his mother” (Luke 1:14, 58). What a joy it is when other folks see potential, value and ability in your child! But that is not the main focus here!
Read the very next statement. (3) “For he will be great in the sight of the Lord” (Luke 1:15). That! That is what matters!
How often is the greatest emphasis in raising children placed on keeping the parents happy, OR on wanting them to succeed and be recognized and accepted in sports or business or good friends? Really, really ALL that matters is if your child is “great in the sight of the Lord”! What are you doing to that end?