The birth of John the Baptist was an occasion of great celebration, joy and expectation (v.57–66). When Zechariah (unable to speak) wrote, “His name is to be John”… it took everybody by surprise. Surprise followed surprise – Zechariah’s mouth was now open, his tongue loose, and he was talking, praising God!’ (v.63–64, MSG).

Zechariah saw that God was coming to bring salvation to his people. But his prophecy goes well beyond political salvation. Something far deeper and wider is about to happen, fulfilling the great promises of the Old Testament. It will involve ‘redemption’ (v.68b), rescue from enemies (v.74a) and forgiveness of sins (v.77b). Salvation is the ‘path of peace’ (v.79). Zechariah, in this description of salvation, summed up so many of the freedoms that Jesus would bring to us:

•   Freedom from fear (v.74b)
•   Freedom to serve God (v.74b)
•   Freedom to be holy (v.75)
•   Freedom to be righteous (v.75)
•   Freedom from death (v.79b)

Question: What do you need God to free you from? What does God want you free you for?

Prayer: Praise you, Lord, that you give me freedom from death and fear. Thank you that you set me free to serve you. Help me today to serve you without fear, in holiness and righteousness, and guide my feet into the path of peace. May your hand be with me.