ACC ~ Luke 1 v67

ZECHARIAH’S PROPHECY IS A HYMN

NICETA OF REMESIANA: That which was spiritual in the Old Testament, for example, faith, piety, prayer, fasting, patience, chastity and psalm singing—all this has been increased in the New Testament rather than diminished. Therefore you will find in the Gospel Zechariah, the father of John, who uttered a prophecy in the form of a hymn after his long silence. LITURGICAL SINGING 9. [1]

[1] FC 7:72*.

THE HOLY SPIRIT OPENS JOHN’S EARS

AMBROSE: Some might consider it ridiculous that [Zechariah] spoke to an eight-day-old infant. [1] But if we hold the truth, we will understand that the child who heard the salutation of Mary before his birth could hear the voice of his father. The prophet knew that a prophet has other ears that are opened by the Spirit of God despite bodily age. He who had the disposition to rejoice had the perception of understanding. EXPOSITION OF THE GOSPEL OF LUKE 2.34. [2]

[1] Lk 1:59.

[2] EHG 49**; CSEL 32 4:59.