Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

Today, we celebrate the birth of three figures we greatly admire in the liturgical year: Jesus, Mary, and John the Baptist. The birth of John, like that of Jesus and Mary, is a significant event in the history of our salvation. For Saint Luke, John serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments. His birth is surrounded by mystery, yet he embodies simplicity and humility.

He keeps his place in God’s plan of salvation. He is not excited beyond his vocation. He acknowledges that he is not the Christ. He remains faithful to his vocation, which brings him great joy, to the point that people think he is the Christ. He is clothed with humility and sincerity. His vocation also suffers a tough moment when he is put in prison for speaking out against the king’s unlawful marriage. Even in this challenging situation, John remains strong in his vocation, sending a message to Jesus asking whether he was really the one to come.

Today, let us emulate the fidelity of John. Let us admire his profound humility, a virtue that is often overlooked in our world today. Let us follow his witness to the truth. He stood for the truth, even to the point of giving up his life. A true prophet not intimidated by political or civil authority. As we celebrate his birth, we also contemplate the greatness of God, manifested in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, an ancient couple who conceived a child. God breaks the laws of nature with the birth of John, in preparation for the greatest miracle of the resurrection.

Let Us Pray:

Almighty God, Saint John the Baptist was filled with joy at the visit of your son even while still in his mother’s womb. His joy is a beacon of hope for us, a reminder that even in the most unexpected moments, God’s grace can fill us with joy. Grant, we pray, that we who receive Him in the Eucharist might experience the same joy every day in our lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord.