There had been 400 years of silence from God; no prophecy or prophets. But suddenly, God is again speaking to His people. He spoke to Zechariah, the priest, that he would have a son who would prepare the way for the Messiah, John the Baptist.
As the story unfolded, John grew up to become one who encouraged people to believe again that the Messiah was coming. He began baptizing Jews into a new life of serving God. Ultimately, John gave his life because he brought good news to Israel and angered those in religious power. Sounds like Jesus, doesn’t it?