Birth of St. John the Baptist, year A (Solemnity)
Theme: A child of destiny
Today the church celebrates the solemnity of the birth of John the Baptist. He was a child that came at a time when the parents have given up hope that they will be parents. This was what gave rise to the doubt of the angel’s message by the father Zechariah. The story of John from the very beginning was shrouded in mystery and God used it to the glory of his name and to also strengthen the faith of all those who knew about the birth of John the Baptist. He was a child that was specially prepared by God for the mission to act as a herald and the forerunner of Jesus Christ.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, as we celebrate the birth of John the Baptist today, it gives us an opportunity to reflect about him, his mission and way of life. One thing that is very clear about him is that he was a child of destiny and was prepared for his mission on earth at the appointed time. Immediately he was named John, the power of speech of his father Zechariah was restored, a sign that the hand of God was in everything that was happening in the life of John the Baptist. As he grew, his missions as a herald and forerunner were very clear to him. That is why in the 2nd reading of today, we are told about the fact that John pointed out the fact that he was not Jesus, and he is not fit to undo his sandals. John was a man who understood his mission very well and was contented with what he was called to do.
Dear friends in Christ, as we continue to reflect on the life of John the Baptist today, it will be proper to also point out the fact that he was a very humble man, and this reflects very well in the way he carried out the mission assigned to him by God. In humility he pointed out the fact that he is not the one they are expecting, and he is greater than him, that is the height of humility. When Jesus eventually came into the picture, he showed him to the people and gladly left the stage. He did not get jealous that his followers left him and started following Jesus, he accepted the situation, knowing fully well that his work is done.
The man whose birth we celebrate today, has taught a lot of things that will help us to become better children of God and Christians. Let us emulate him and be contented with the mission God has given us to do on earth. May almighty God bless you in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.