Chapter 1 – The Prophet John the Baptist
Story No. 2 of 11: (John 1:57-66)
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.
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.
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
Private Moments
| Music Suggestion: Bind Us Together
Listen and reflect… pause and talk. |
2nd January Spiritual Works of Mercy No 1: Instructing those who don’t know about God: “Whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven”. (Mt 5:19) Pray for parents… Hail Mary… |
Read More: Jesus’ Life – See All 365 Stories
(Note: The story order represents an approximate timeline of events in Jesus’ ministry; Biblical Scholars views vary.)
