65. All their neighbors were filled with awe. Throughout the mountain region of Judea, people talked about everything that had happened.
66. Everyone who heard about it seriously thought it over and asked, “What does the future hold for this child?” It was clear that the Lord was with him.
67. His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied,
68. “Praise the Lord God of Israel!He has come to take care of his peopleand to set them free.
69. He has raised up a mighty Savior for usin the family of his servant David.
70. He made this promise through his holy prophets long ago.
71. He promised to save us from our enemiesand from the power of all who hate us.
72. He has shown his mercy to our ancestorsand remembered his holy promise,
73. the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham.
74. He promised to rescue us from our enemies’ powerso that we could serve him without fear
75. by being holy and honorable as long as we live.
76. “You, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High.You will go ahead of the Lord to prepare his way.
77. You will make his people know that they can be savedthrough the forgiveness of their sins.
78. A new day will dawn on us from abovebecause our God is loving and merciful.
79. He will give light to those who live in the darkand in death’s shadow.He will guide us into the way of peace.”
80. The child John grew and became spiritually strong. He lived in the desert until the day he appeared to the people of Israel.