Reflecting on the Life of John the Baptist (Homily on the solemnity of the Nativity of John the Baptist June 24 2024

Homily on the solemnity of the Nativity of John the Baptist June 24 2024

Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 139; Acts 13:22-26, Luke 1:57-66,80

Reflecting on the Life of John the Baptist

The narrative of John the Baptist's birth is a testament to divine benevolence. The Lord's grace was manifest in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, blessing them with progeny even beyond the customary years of fertility. This grace extended to all of humanity, for John's arrival signified the advent of the Messiah.

The liturgical proclamation hails John as the herald of the Most High, ordained to precede the Lord and forge His path. This role of John, as a harbinger of Christ's initial arrival, invites us to embrace a similar vocation in anticipation of Christ's promised return. In this sense, we all share in "John's" prophetic mission.

Accepting this prophetic calling in theory poses little difficulty. The true test lies in emulating John the Baptist's disposition, as depicted in the epistle: "Who do you think I am? I am not the one. But behold, one follows after me, whose sandals I am unworthy to unfasten." John's distinction was rooted in his humility—a humility that did not diminish his significance but acknowledged and embraced it. Likewise, true humility arises not from denying our gifts but from recognizing them as divine endowments meant for service.

The constancy of God's promises is unwavering, and our trust must be anchored in this truth. Understanding that God's timeline may diverge from our own is crucial. Although John's birth foreshadowed his eminent role, he was destined to abide in seclusion until his appointed revelation to Israel. Often, our reluctance to endure the "wilderness" hinders our growth.

Growth invariably begins with a period of incubation. Spiritual maturation demands that we undergo our own form of incubation in the "wilderness"—maintaining resilience and fidelity amidst trials and persisting in faith when prayers appear unanswered. Inspired by the events surrounding John the Baptist's birth, let us cultivate patience and humility as we faithfully journey with the Lord.