The Herald!

Our gospel today, Luke 1:57-66, is the birth of John the Baptist, the herald, the forerunner of the Messiah. We remember that John's father, Zechariah, was struck mute because of his disbelief at the angel's message. When he writes to the people gathered for John's circumcision that the boy's name will be John, his speech is returned. As the commentary states, "Lo, I am sending my messenger. The divine destiny of the Baptist resounds in the conviction of his mother's voice: 'He will be called John.' Elizabeth and Zechariah recognize in this infant the one who 'shows sinners the way.' The friendship of the Lord is with us - the new covenant" (Magnificat, 321). John the Baptist prepared the people for the coming of the Messiah. He is the herald of the Good News and we are called to do the same in our own lives. Let us continue to do our part as we prepare to welcome the newborn King on the glorious feast of Christmas. Have a blessed day!!!