Nativity of John the Baptist
Luke 1:57-66, 80
Joy, Wonder, and Gratitude

Today, the Church celebrates with joy the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist—a birth that brought light and hope to the lives of Elizabeth and Zechariah. Their story is one of trust and surprise. They were elderly, long past the age of bearing children, and yet God’s promise broke through their sorrow. Their son’s birth reminds us that nothing is impossible with God (Lk 1:37). When we are discouraged or feel forgotten, let us remember: God is still at work, often beyond what we can understand.

The Gospel tells us of a small but significant moment—when Zechariah, still mute, writes: “His name is John.” With that act of faith, his tongue is loosed and he praises God. The name John means “God is gracious”—a name not chosen by family tradition but given by divine grace. This child would grow to become the forerunner of Christ, a prophet for the poor and humble, preparing the way of the Lord.

All those who witnessed this moment were filled with wonder, awe, and gratitude. These are the signs of a living faith—a faith that recognises God’s hand in small beginnings and hidden miracles.

Let us ask ourselves: Is my faith like that? Do I feel joy when I see God at work? Am I open to His surprises? Does my heart still marvel at the gift of life, at the grace of every new day?

Let us pray to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who believed in God’s promises, to help us rediscover a faith full of joy, wonder, surprise, and gratitude. May every family become a sanctuary of life, and may we, like John, be witnesses to God’s grace in the world.
Amen.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025