sin. John was not to
be a revolutionist but a reformer. He was to call a nation to repentance
that those who obeyed his message might be ready to receive the salvation
of Christ.

This mission of John is linked with that of Christ as the description of
the latter reaches its climax in the closing strophe. Vs. 78, 79. The
source of all the blessings Christ will bring is found in "the tender
mercy of our God;" the essence is a visitation of "the dayspring from on
high," when the Sun of righteousness arises upon the helpless, terrified
wanderers of the night who are seated "in darkness and the shadow of
death;" the result will be "to guide our feet into the way of peace."

Such is the hymn of Zacharias, a hymn of faith, of hope, of gratitude, a
song of the salvation provided by the love of God in Jesus Christ our
Lord.

E. The Birth of Jesus. Ch. 2:1-20

1 Now it came to pass in those days, there went out a decree from
Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be enrolled. 2 This was
the first enrolment made when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3
And all went to enrol themselves, every one to his own city. 4 And
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth,
into Judaea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem,
because he was of the house and family of David; 5 to enrol
himself with Mary, who was betrothed to him, being great with
child. 6 And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were
fulfilled that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth
her firstborn son; and she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and
laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the
inn.

8 And there were shepherds in the same country abiding in the
field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. 9 And an angel
of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone round
about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto
them, Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great
joy which shall be to all the people: 11 for there is born to you
this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.
12 And this is the sign unto you: Ye shall find a babe wrapped in
swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there
was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God,
and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest,