#6 Luke 1:57-80

Background: Today’s reading is a bit longer, but it is of a piece.  Mary has left, so the focus is back on Elizabeth and Zechariah.  Elizabeth delivers her child, who will become John the Baptist.  After 9 months of being muted by his doubt, now Zechariah acknowledges the truth and the Angels message when he writes down that John will be the name of his son.  He again can speak, and like Mary, breaks into a song-like praise and thanksgiving.  Note that unlike Mary, Zechariah’s praise is not really from a personal perspective, but as a senior member in the Jewish culture.  He sings praise for the completion of the promise given to Israel.  He begins what his son will carry on, telling people what is coming.

Focus Verse Luke 1:78-79  By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

What more could we wish for Christmas? What more could be we grateful for? Tender mercy from a God that brings light.  And in that light, we can see our way to peace.  There may be darkness in our lives, but we don’t need to say there.  That is something to be thankful for.