67. John's father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he spoke God's message:
68. “Let us praise the Lord, the God of Israel!He has come to the help of his people and has set them free.
69. He has provided for us a mighty Saviour,a descendant of his servant David.
70. He promised through his holy prophets long ago
71. that he would save us from our enemies,from the power of all those who hate us.
72. He said he would show mercy to our ancestorsand remember his sacred covenant.
73-74. With a solemn oath to our ancestor Abrahamhe promised to rescue us from our enemiesand allow us to serve him without fear,
75. so that we might be holy and righteous before himall the days of our life.
76. “You, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High God.You will go ahead of the Lordto prepare his road for him,