Luke 1:57-80
Elisabeth brings into the world the one who is to become the prophet of the Highest (v. 76). Neighbours and relatives rejoice with her. Note how often joy fills these chapters (Luke 1:14; Luke 1:44; Luke 1:47; Luke 1:58; Luke 2:10). Now Zacharias has the opportunity to demonstrate his faith by confirming the lovely name of this child. (John means favour of the Lord). As soon as he is given back his voice, the first words he utters are to praise and bless God. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he praises God for the great deliverance which He will bring about for His people. How much higher the song of the Christian can rise! Through the coming of Christ and His work on the cross, God has delivered us not from our earthly enemies but from the power of Satan. Being thus set free, is it not our privilege to serve the Lord "without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life" (vv. 74, 75)?
"The dayspring from on high hath visited us" adds Zacharias. In the days of Ezekiel, the glory had departed towards the east. What a wonderful mystery, this divine glory returns to visit a weak, needy people (v. 79)! This time it does not return in a dazzling cloud, but instead in the form of a humble babe.