Read LUKE 1:67–79
The classic hymn, “All Creatures of Our God and King,” climaxes with praise to the Trinity: “All creatures of our God and King, / Lift up your voice and with us sing Alleluia! / . . . Let all things their Creator bless, / And worship Him in humbleness. / O praise Him! Alleluia!
/ Praise, praise the Father, Praise the Son, / And praise the Spirit, Three in One! / O praise Him! Alleluia!” The Trinity is highlighted in Zechariah’s prophecy at the birth of his son, John the Baptist. After confirming the name John, Zechariah’s ability to speak (taken away by God as a result of his doubt- filled response in the temple), was restored to him. Filled by the Holy Spirit, he used his newly regained speech to praise God and to deliver an incredible prophecy (v. 67).
Most of Zechariah’s prophecy was not about his own son but rather about the son of Mary—the Son of God. Jesus was God’s “horn of salvation” (v. 69), the literal embodiment of His long- promised plan of redemption. He was the “rising sun” dawning with God’s light for “those living in darkness and in the shadow of death” (vv. 78–79). He would guide sinners’ feet into the “path of peace” with God (see Rom. 5:10). Zechariah’s son, John, would be His forerunner, preparing the way with a call to repentance and forgiveness.
All of this was taking place according to the plan of God the Father. These events signified that “he has come to his people and redeemed them” (v. 68). In Christ, the Father fulfilled His covenants with David and with Abraham, as well as many prophecies. His “tender mercy” was the impetus for salvation (v. 78). Throughout his prophecy, Zechariah emphasized God’s strength, faithfulness, and especially His love.
APPLY THE WORD
Zechariah rejoiced because now God’s people would be enabled “to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness” (vv. 74–75). We can now serve and obey the Lord as we ought. Thanks to Jesus’ death and resurrection and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we can bring glory to God and devote our lives to serving and loving Him.
DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION 