Remembering the birth of John the Baptist

Today we hear of the birth of the son of Elizabeth and Zechariah. His parents insisted that he be named John in obedience to the message from Gabriel. As a result, Zachariah's speech returned and he announced that John was chosen to prepare the way of the Lord. We know that John did that by calling people to a change of attitude, receiving his baptism as a sign of repentance. Jesus later praised John saying that, ''Among those born of women no one is greater than John the Baptist,'' but he then continues with the amazing words, ''yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.'' (Matthew 11:11). John died before the death and resurrection of Jesus. He did not receive the Spirit sent by Jesus at the first Pentecost. He himself said that he was only baptizing with water but one is coming who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. That is the baptism that we have received. We have been united with the Son of God, whose birth from Mary we are now celebrating. After his death and resurrection, Jesus strengthened his disciples by sending the Holy Spirit upon them. John called for a change of life but it is the Spirit of the Risen Lord who gives us the power to transform our lives. Last night at the novena, we reflected on the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22. Based on our life experiences, we each chose the fruit we most need and the community extended their hands over each one asking for that fruit. It was a good exercise and we thanked God for the spiritual Christmas present that we received. May you all be blessed with the joy of Christmas. Amen