John’s father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied,
“Bless the Lord God of Israel
because he has come to help and has delivered his people.
He has raised up a mighty savior for us in his servant David’s house,
just as he said through the mouths of his holy prophets long ago.
He has brought salvation from our enemies
and from the power of all those who hate us.
He has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors,
and remembered his holy covenant,
the solemn pledge he made to our ancestor Abraham.
He has granted that we would be rescued
from the power of our enemies
so that we could serve him without fear,
in holiness and righteousness in God’s eyes,
for as long as we live.
You, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High,
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.
You will tell his people how to be saved
through the forgiveness of their sins.
Because of our God’s deep compassion,
the dawn from heaven will break upon us,
to give light to those who are sitting in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide us on the path of peace.”
The child grew up, becoming strong in character. He was in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. (Luke 1:67-80, CEB)
John was a prophet who was here before Jesus so he could prepare the way for Jesus.
God’s deep compassion moved the dawn from heaven to break upon us and we were given a light. A light that dispelled the darkness and brought us out of death.
John came to show us this light and to help us see the peace.
Today we will receive the baby that changes everything. John told the world about him.
Will you?
Loving People. Loving God.