May the Lord bless you with peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
Wishing you all a happy feast of St. John the Baptist.
It is 24th June 2021. We celebrate the Solemnity of the Birth of St John the Baptist. We reflect from Isaiah 49:1-6, Acts 13:22-26 and the Gospel from Luke 1:57-66, 80.
Only for three person we celebrate birthdays in the liturgical celebration of the Church namely our Lord Jesus, our Blessed Mother Mary, and John the Baptist.
It is so fitting to reflect about the last prophet, in the words of Isaiah, “The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother’s womb, he named me. He made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand, he hid me; he made me a polished arrow.” (Is.49:1)
Every human birth has something to offer to the world. There is a wonder and mystery in every human birth. God has a plan for every child that is born. The purpose of human birth is to unite and love people. John’s Birth was to bear witness to Jesus, the light of the world.
The role that is expected of us to play in achieving God’s plan we need to play our part so responsibly and faithfully like John the Baptist. His birth brought a special blessing to his parents who waited for such a long time for a child.
He is the one pointed out the Messiah. Though he was a precursor but unwavering proclaimer of truth. He pointed out the Truth, followed the Truth and lived for the Truth. “I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” (Is.49:6)
He lived in the desert, yet he never abandoned God in his life. He remained a pointer even when people wanted him to be the Messiah. St. Paul describes the Baptizer as the herald of Christ. “I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”
The Gospel presents us with the birth and naming of John with the wonder and mystery: “What then will this child become?” (Lk.1:66). John means God is gracious, or God shows favour.
He remained a question to many people, by his simplicity, honesty and generosity with God constantly pin-pointing Jesus, the Messiah, and the Saviour of the world.
By the virtue of Baptism, we all need to bear witness to Jesus, to be the heralds and servants pointing out Christ to the world by our life in every level.