Christmas: A Story of Fulfillment - Serve Without Fear

This week we consider the birth of John, the one who came to prepare God’s people to receive their Messiah. Luke gives a short narrative highlighting the events of his birth, centering on his name choice. When Elizabeth says his name is John, everyone is surprised since no one in their family bears that name. Not only is that significant in Jewish culture but because of the meaning of John’s name, “Yahweh has been gracious.” When they confirm that name choice with Zechariah, God enables him to declare his praise.

When he speaks, like Mary, he paints a picture of the result of God’s rescuing work for his people. Like Tolkien and Lewis during the war, Zechariah can visualize a world where evil has been fully vanquished, and God’s people are free to live without fear. Where Mary’s song focuses on God exalting his people, Zechariah’s blessing envisions the freedom God’s work provides. As he says, “to grant us, that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear.” (v74)

Again, this portion overflows with God’s grace to his people. In faithfulness to his mercy and grace, God comes to the aid of his people. As believers, we are the light of that world shining in the darkness. Join us Sunday, as we worship our great Rescuer.