Thurday, June 23, 2022

 

Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

(Isaiah 49:1-6; Acts 13:22-26; Lucas 1:56-66.80)

Today is an anomaly.  We most always celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist on June 24.  However, this year it gives way to the celebration of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus tomorrow, the Friday after Trinity Sunday.  Some may wonder why we celebrate John the Baptist’s birthday at all.  The question is especially interesting since the Church does not celebrate the birthday of any other except Christ and his Virgin Mother.

John the Baptist was the first to recognize Jesus as the Holy One of Israel.  When Mary, pregnant with Jesus, visited his mother, John leaped for joy to be in the presence of the Messiah.  Then John served as Jesus’ harbinger, announcing that his own call to repentance only foreshadowed Jesus’ cleansing with the Holy Spirit.  Finally, John died as a prophet, martyred for speaking truth to the power of King Herod Agrippa.

Today’s gospel features the naming of John.  The name literally means “the Lord has shown favor.”  It certainly is the case, as much for us as for John's parents. Through John's ministry we are blessed with a model of devotion and an example of testimony to Christ.