Zechariah had not been able to speak for nine months! With the birth of his son, John, his tongue is set free and he sings a song of praise. The first part of his song celebrates the coming of Jesus, the promised Messiah. The second part of his song celebrates the role his son would play in preparing the way for Jesus. Let's consider the first part of Zechariah's song today.
God has come! The word translated "has come" means "to visit." In Jesus, God came to earth to visit us.
God came to redeem. The word "redeem" means "to buy back; to rescue." An example of "redemption" in the Old Testament was when God rescued Israel from slavery in Egypt and set them free. Zechariah knew that God was visiting man in order to rescue mankind from sin and set us free. In Jesus, God provided his great mercy to man.
God came to rescue. God promised to send a deliverer "as he said through his holy prophets of long ago." In Jesus this promise was fulfilled. Jesus came to rescue us from the world, from flesh, from the devil, and from death.
God came to enable service. Jesus provided the way for man to serve God without fear, and in holiness and righteousness.
Lord Jesus, thank you for taking on flesh and coming to the earth to live among us. Thank you for redeeming us, rescuing us, and allowing us to serve you. In your name. Amen.
For parents: Good theology starts at home. Teach your children the theological truths of redemption, salvation, holiness, and righteousness found in these passages. Share with us the way you explain these truths in an age-appropriate way. Are there any helpful resources that you use? Email us at [email protected].
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