68  “Praise the Lord God of Israel! 

He has come to take care of his people 

and to set them free. 

69  He has raised up a mighty Savior for us 

in the family of his servant David. 

70  He made this promise through his holy prophets long ago. 

71  He promised to save us from our enemies 

and from the power of all who hate us. 

72  He has shown his mercy to our ancestors 

and remembered his holy promise,b

73  the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham. 

74  He promised to rescue us from our enemies’ power 

so that we could serve him without fear 

75  by being holy and honorable as long as we live. 

76  “You, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High. 

You will go ahead of the Lord to prepare his way. 

77  You will make his people know that they can be saved 

through the forgiveness of their sins. 

78  A new day will dawn on us from above 

because our God is loving and merciful. 

79  He will give light to those who live in the dark 

and in death’s shadow. 

He will guide us into the way of peace.”