Born for the Light

    

Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

24 June 2024

 

First Reading: Is 49:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 139 1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15

Second Reading: Acts 13:22-26

Gospel: Lk 1:57-66, 80

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

Kristina and Joey have been married for a few years. During family reunions, relatives often ask them when they would have a baby. As Kristina grew older, a relative discouraged her from trying as she was past the age when women conceive. In spite of that, the couple continued to pray and try. A few months passed, Kristina got pregnant and then gave birth to a healthy baby girl, Josephine Emilia. Two years later, the couple is expecting another baby.

In today's Gospel, a baby boy was born to Elizabeth and Zechariah. Nine months previously, Zechariah admitted to the angel Gabriel "I am an old man and my wife is well on in years" (Lk 1:18). In spite of this, the Lord has shown His favour on this holy couple. Relatives and neighbours sharing their joy ask, "What, then, will this child be?" (Lk 1:66). The Lord will make this child the light to the nations, "that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth" (Is 49:6). He will be the Lord's forerunner who "heralded his coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel" (Ac 13:24).

"What, then, will this child be?" This would often be our question gazing on a new-born baby. Perhaps this was the same question asked by our parents and elders when we were born. The Lord has favoured Elizabeth and Zechariah, Kristina and Joey. He has blessed us too with a gift of a child or children. Like us, our child or children may not have a gargantuan task like John the Baptist's, but we have a duty to spread the word of salvation. We have a mission to bear witness to Jesus, "the true light that enlightens all men" (Jn 1:9).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, "we praise You, for we are wonderfully made" (cf. Ps 139:14). Through the prayers and example of Saint John the Baptist, help us, especially all expectant parents, to value the gift of life and dedicate it to prepare a way for Your coming. Amen.