24 Jun
Sat
Birth of St John the Baptist
Is. 49:1-6
Ps. 139:1-3,13-15
Acts 13:22-26
Lk. 1:57-66,80
(Psalter proper)
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The birth of a baby is a momentous event for any family. It was no different for Elizabeth and Zechariah. When their son was born they were elated and all their neighbours and friends were happy for them. But John had been chosen by God for a very special role.

Eight days after the birth, friends and relatives arrived for the circumcision and naming ceremonies. They assumed, following tradition, that the boy would be named Zechariah after his father. But Elizabeth insisted that he be called John as she had a premonition of the work that her son was destined to undertake. Zechariah supported his wife. The visitors were overcome with awe for a number of reasons. Firstly Elizabeth, a woman, had spoken up and had insisted on giving her child a name which was completely different from his father's name. This action was very significant as women normally did not speak up in those days and simply deferred to their husbands in all things. Secondly the fact that both Zechariah and Elizabeth were prepared to "break with tradition" was totally unexpected and seemed to indicate that John might be a very special person. When Zechariah regained the power of speech this simply reinforced that something very special was taking place here which was beyond their understanding.



With hindsight we know that John had been specially chosen by God to prepare the way for His Son - Jesus.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That Christian families may lovingly welcome every child who comes into existence and surround the sick and the aged, who need care and assistance, with affection.
Elaboration

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