Read Luke 1:5-25
A couple “advanced in years,” unable to have children, are promised the miraculous birth of a son. It’s impossible not to see the connection to Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 17:15–19) and the promise of their son—a promise through which God would establish a people set apart and belonging to Him.
The temple, priest, altar, incense, and the echo of Elijah—these details Luke includes signal that this story must be read in light of the Old Testament, the people of Israel, and God’s covenant promises to them. With this context in mind, when we hear the angel’s words to Zechariah about the Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy after years of barrenness, we are drawn especially to the purpose of this promised child. Their son, John, will “turn many to the Lord their God.”
John’s promised birth is not a new or disconnected work, but another movement in the same saving story God has been unfolding from Old Testament times into the New Testament era Luke records. Through His Word, through His prophets, and through His direct intervention in human history, God has always been at work saving, setting apart, and turning—or returning—people to Himself through repentance. Because of God’s faithful pursuit and enduring promises, we can live as His rejoicing people, confident that salvation is ours in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your pursuing grace. Turn me away from my sins to live in Your promise of salvation. Amen.