67. Then Zechariah, John’s father, was filled with the Holy Spirit. He told the people what would happen:
68. “Let us thank the Lord, the God of Israel.God has come to help his people and has given them freedom.
69. God has given us a powerful Saviorfrom the family of God’s servant David.
70. God said that he would do this.He said it through his holy prophets who lived long ago.
71. God will save us from our enemiesand from the power of all those who hate us.
72. God said he would give mercy to our ancestors.And he remembered his holy promise.
73. God promised Abraham, our father,
74. that he would free us from the power of our enemies,so that we could serve him without fear.
75. We will be righteous and holy before God as long as we live.
76. “Now you, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High God.You will go first before the Lordto prepare the people for his coming.
77. You will make his people know that they will be saved.They will be saved by having their sins forgiven.
78. With the loving mercy of our God,a new day from heaven will shine upon us.
79. God will help those who live in darkness,in the fear of death.He will guide us into the path that goes toward peace.”