67. Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy:
68. “Praise the Lord, the God of Israel,because he has visited and redeemed his people.
69. He has sent us a mighty Saviorfrom the royal line of his servant David,
70. just as he promisedthrough his holy prophets long ago.
71. Now we will be saved from our enemiesand from all who hate us.
72. He has been merciful to our ancestorsby remembering his sacred covenant—
73. the covenant he swore with an oathto our ancestor Abraham.
74. We have been rescued from our enemiesso we can serve God without fear,
75. in holiness and righteousnessfor as long as we live.
76. “And you, my little son,will be called the prophet of the Most High,because you will prepare the way for the Lord.
77. You will tell his people how to find salvationthrough forgiveness of their sins.
78. Because of God’s tender mercy,the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,
79. to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,and to guide us to the path of peace.”
80. John grew up and became strong in spirit. And he lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel.