Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, puzzled that he was taking so long inside the sanctuary.
In context
19The angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and bring you this good news. 20Now listen: you will be silent, unable to speak, until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words — and they will be fulfilled at their proper time.” 21Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, puzzled that he was taking so long inside the sanctuary. 22When he came out he could not speak to them, and they understood that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He kept making signs to them, and he remained unable to speak. 23When the days of his service were finished, he went home.
