John the Baptist Is Born

When the time came for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. Her relatives and neighbours heard how greatly the Lord had shown mercy to her, and they shared her joy.

Eight days later, people gathered for the child’s circumcision. They were going to name the baby after his father, Zacharias. But Elizabeth said the child was to be called John.

The people objected because none of their relatives had that name. So they turned to the child’s father and made signs to ask what he wanted the boy to be called.

Zacharias asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” Everyone was amazed. At once his mouth was opened, his tongue was freed, and he began blessing God.

The people living nearby were filled with awe, and news of these things spread through the hill country of Judea. Those who heard about it kept it in their hearts and wondered what this child would become, because the Lord’s hand was with him.