The Angel Announces to Zechariah

The Angel Announces to Zechariah

The Beginning of the Mission of the Forerunner

The account of the Angel's announcement to Zechariah (Lk 1:5-25) opens the transitional phase between the Old Testament and the New Testament. While performing his priestly duties in the Temple, Zechariah is informed by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth, his barren wife, will give birth to a son. But more importantly, this child is chosen by God for a special mission in the history of salvation.

The Angel Announces the Forerunner

Gabriel not only announces the birth of a child but also reveals his role: John will “go before the Lord in the spirit and power of the prophet Elijah.” John's mission is to prepare the hearts of the people, calling them to repentance to receive the Savior. Thus, John is the bridge between the promises of the prophets and the appearance of Jesus Christ.

Doubt and the Sign of Silence

Zechariah doubts the angel's words because of his and his wife's old age. Therefore, he becomes mute until the day all these words are fulfilled. This sign of silence is not meant as punishment but to help him enter into the mystery of faith, so that when John is born, he can recognize God's wondrous action.

The Role of John the Baptist in the History of Salvation

Jesus calls John “the greatest among those born of women.” John is the voice crying in the wilderness, inviting the people to conversion, and he introduced Jesus as the “Lamb of God.” Thus, John fulfills his role as the Forerunner: leading humanity closer to the Savior.

“The child will be great in the sight of the Lord… and will prepare a people ready for Him.” (cf. Lk 1:15-17)