The time comes for elderly Elizabeth to give birth to her son (v57). This was a time of great rejoicing for Elizabeth (v58) and the focus then turns to the name of the boy (v59). As often was the case, many expected the boy to be called after his father Zechariah, but Elizabeth instead says he shall be called ‘John’ (v60). The name John means ‘the Lord saves’ and in using this name it is a reminder that what is happening here is at the heart of God’s wonderful plan of salvation. John would be the one who would prepare the way for the coming of the Saviour.

Zechariah responds to criticism about this name (v61-62) by writing on a tablet, ‘his name is John’ (v63). As Zechariah writes this, and therefore embraces through faith God’s saving plans, his tongue is loosened and he is enabled to speak once more (v64). Zechariah’s time of silence and trial has brought a spiritual maturing and a deepening of faith.

What has happened causes a fear and a sense of wonder throughout this region (v65-66). When God moves in His saving purposes the world takes note. We need to pray for God to move powerfully today in saving souls.