Daily Prayers

Prayer is Love, I want to Love

Birth And Circumcision Of John

Jesus’ Life: Chapter 1 – The Prophet John The Baptist

The Blessed Virgin Mary made the long journey to Elizabeth’s home. She was her older cousin and already six months pregnant.

Such was the unexpected blessing of a child to aged parents that an overjoyed Mary probably stayed with her until the baby’s birth. The anticipated newborn was a great celebration.

Presentation of John the Baptist for circumcision

On the customary eighth day after the baby boy’s birth, Elizabeth and Zechariah took him to be circumcised. Expectations were that they would name him after his father but when Elizabeth said, “He must be named John,” everyone reacted with great surprise and turned to Zechariah for approval.

Zechariah was unable to speak so they gave him a tablet and he wrote, “His name is John”. At that moment, Zechariah’s speech was restored. (John 1:57-66)

Thought

What great family joy, the birth of a child! Of course, we were all once a baby but that’s easy to forget or shrug aside! Why do we do so?

God’s gift of life, is the most precious of all; John the Baptist was even more special.

Reflection

Lord, guide us in our awkward ways; open our selfish hearts to celebrate your great gifts with others.

Prayer: Day-by-day (St Richard of Chichester)

Praise be to Thee, O Lord Jesus Christ
For all the benefits you have given us,
for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us.
O most merciful Redeemer, Friend and Brother,
May, we see you more clearly,
Love you more dearly,
and follow You more nearly.
Day by day. Amen