23rdDecember, WednesdayI. Mal 3:1-4, 23-24
II. Lk 1:57-66
Theme: Birth of John the Baptist inaugurates the dawn of new age in the salvation history.
In today’s gospel we have the birth of John the Baptist followed by naming ceremony. In Jewish culture the lack of children was of great shame and many considered to be a curse from God. By giving Elizabeth a son, God had removed this shame from her. Moreover, Elizabeth had indication from her husband and from Mary that her son would be an honoured prophet and the one who would prepare the way for the Messiah. Her shame was not simply removed but abundantly honoured.
Today We recall the birth of a promised child. Apart from Jesus and Mary John is the only person whose birth we celebrate as well as the close of his life. He is given a new name, because God has a special mission for him. John the Baptist’s birth begins the dawn of a new age in the salvation history, the time where God has come to visit his people and to be the one with them for this, we have the facts in today’s Gospel Firstly we find Elizabeth in her old age conceiving and giving birth to a son, telling us that no matter how worse the situation be this is never too late or impossible for God to act in our life situation. Second the new born child is named John as per the instructions of Angel Gabriel to Zechariah.
The name John mean Yahweh is Gracious, yes God is gracious and Zechariah is reminded of this fact of God’s graciousness through vision he has during his worship in the temple of God. In our prayers and petitions we can like Zechariah encounter God who is ever merciful and provident to the faithful. Therefore, in our faithfulness to God let us wait for his wondrous deed to unfold in our life. Thirdly We all have a beautiful name. This name is given to us with meaning and purpose. If John lived up to his name we are also called to live up to our name. Today let us reflect on the name of each one of us and ask the Lord what you want me to do for you. Lastly, the birth of John the Baptist caused all human race to rejoice. God's mercy upon a person's life is sure to make someone to rejoice. The very same privilege is given to each one of us. Every one's birth is a blessing to the humanity. God's power and His mercy is manifested in everyone's birth. God wants to involve every one of us in His plan of salvation, both to be saved and to bear witness of His salvation.
Bro. Martin SMM
II BTH