This prophetic carol is a song of Praise & Thanksgiving.

Luke 1:57-75

This part of the carol is know as Benedictus Dominus Deus Israel or blessed be the God of Israel.

Zechariah praises the God of Israel for keeping his covenants (promises) with David, Abraham, Himself, and all the covenant keeping people.

This prophetic carol is a song of Acknowledgement and Agreement .

Luke 1:76-77

Zechariah has come full circle.  He looks down at his baby son and begins to sing prophetically in agreement with the promises made to him by God through the angel. 

This prophetic carol is a song foretelling of the ministry of Jesus

Luke 1:78-79

            “…because of the tender mercy of our God,
      by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven
        to shine on those living in darkness
      and in the shadow of death,
   to guide our feet into the path of peace."

            These lyrics are so beautiful and poetic.  Zechariah sings prophetically of the sun that would rise, coming from heaven. Who or what is this rising sun?

1: This rising “sun” is a gift displaying the mercies of God; this sun speaks of Jesus the Christ.

2: This rising sun, Jesus, the Messiah, would come to shine on those living in darkness, to rescue those from the shadow of death.

3: This rising sun, Jesus, the Messiah would come to bring guidance, direction, leadership into the paths of peace.

This prophetic promise was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus.  Because Jesus showed up we do not have to live in darkness or wandering lost in confusion and senseless drama.  We can live in the light and warmth of his presence and love.

This prophetic carol can bring a sense of  Great Hope or Terrible Fear to those living in darkness, and in the shadow of death depending on the response of those who hear.