4th Week of Advent, Friday – 23rd December 2022 — Gospel: Lk 1,57-66
Significant Birth in Salvation History
From the moment of John the Baptist’s conception the people and relatives of their parents recognized this child having a special role in God’s plan. The way his birth had been foretold by the angel, his father being struck speechless until John’s circumcision, the birth to an elderly couple, the special name of John signifying “God is gracious” being given to the child, the angel disclosing to Mary about Elizabeth, and the personal visit of Mary – all these are special signs that John was to play a significant part in the salvation history.
Each element in his birth is very important. The report of the birth like, “Elizabeth bore a son” echoes the words of the angel, “your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son” (Lk 1,13). When her neighbours and relatives heard of the birth, they rejoiced with her, thereby fulfilling the angel’s predication that “many will rejoice at his birth” (Lk 1,14). Again the report of John’s circumcision on the eighth day in accordance with the Mosaic Law adds one more facet to Luke’s portrayal of the heritage and piety in Israel. The naming of John and Zechariah’s recovery brought fear and amazement both to the neighbours and throughout the hill country of Judea. It shows that the effect of their amazement led the people to speculate over the identity of this child. It is fitting, as we prepare for the birth of Jesus, to focus on the significant role of his cousin who was born just six months before Him, who herald the coming of the Messiah.
