In the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, a pattern of twos emerges: two birth announcements, two expectant mothers, two infants, two songs of praise, and two birth narratives. There is a central theme in this pattern: Great mercy comes from a great God through His great Savior. As we take a closer look at the birth of John and the song of praise and prophecy from Zechariah, we will see the effects and the implications of God’s mercy.

In our passage, Luke combines these two separate birth announcements of John and Jesus by showing us what happened when these two mothers encountered each other.

Luke turns our attention to the announcement of Jesus’ birth, as we compare it with the announcement of John’s birth. We will discover that the mighty work God had done in John’s conception would be surpassed by an even greater miracle in the conception of Jesus. This leads us to ask, “What does it mean, and how should we respond?

Advent begins with Zechariah’s story—a faithful man in silence where God was still at work. This week’s message, “Hope in the Silence,” reminds us that waiting isn’t wasted; God works deeply in the quiet. For believers, it’s a call to trust and make room for Jesus. For seekers, it’s an invitation to find peace, joy, and hope in Him. Start Advent with eyes fixed on the One who came—and will come again.