Luke 1:5-23, 57-80
Whenever I eat a banana-flavored chewy candy, I am whisked away to my childhood in Maryland, heading home from church and stopping at the video store for a movie, a Nintendo game, and a piece of candy. These days, I might go years without tasting that flavor, but as soon as I do, I am overcome with delight and memories come rushing back. I imagine this joy echoes what Zechariah felt when his voice finally returned after nine months of silence.
Zechariah likely imagined the moment during his months of silence — but I doubt he was prepared for the magnificence of the song that would come bursting forth from him in Luke 1:67-80. The Benedictus (Latin for “Blessed”) is not only a song of praise, but of prophecy, connecting memories of God’s actions in the world long ago to the promises of what is to come. For Zechariah, time rewinds. He sees past and present at once, connecting Israel’s story to what is about to unfold. His heart overflows with joy as he speaks of the long-awaited fulfillment of God’s promises.
Zechariah foretells the whole world will transcend division and separation. He speaks of God honoring the covenants of old (v. 72) and shining a light through the darkness, even of death, to guide the world to peace and wholeness (v. 77-79). This journey to wholeness needs a period of preparation, of anticipation — and that is what Zechariah sees as John’s future purpose.
In fact, each name in this story resounds with purpose. The Lord Remembers (Zechariah) is silent, as God is my Oath (Elizabeth) prepares to give birth to The Lord is Gracious (John), who in turn, will prepare the way for The Lord is Salvation (Jesus).
Like Zechariah, we may have seasons of silence or doubt, but God is gracious and can break through in surprising ways. Just as a small taste can unexpectedly bring memories flooding back, God’s reminders of future joy and fulfillment can be sudden, intense and hope-filled. Amid so much change and despair in the world today, leaning into joyful anticipation becomes an act of radical hope. But God is Gracious — and through that grace, we are led painstakingly slowly toward peace and wholeness.
The Benedictus reminds us of God’s rescue, and in response, we are called to “serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness, for as long as we live” (v. 74-75). John was called to prepare the Way of Peace, the Way of Jesus — encouraging repentance and symbolizing a new start through the waters of baptism. We can follow suit by helping others prepare for Jesus’ return with anticipation and joy.
Questions for discussion:
- Zechariah’s voice returns with joy and proclamation. Have you ever experienced joy that you wanted to share with everyone? What was that experience like — or what would you imagine it to be like?
- How can we live into being Preparers of the Way of Christ in the world today? What does it look like to prepare the Way of Peace?
