Announcement of the birth of John the Baptist

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Luke begins his gospel with the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist. His parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, are described as good people observing all the commandments and precepts of the law but they were humbled by their lack of children. As in the case of Isaac and Samuel, the birth of John seemed impossible, but it shows that God acts in ways that are least expected and in people who do not seem to have the necessary conditions. Secondly, the announcement was made in the Temple, but Zechariah doubts the word of Gabriel and is struck dumb. Luke is giving us a sign that the temple religion will be giving way to the new Messiah because they did not hear or respond to the preaching of Jesus. John whose birth was announced in the temple rejected it and went to the desert where he preached repentance and prepared a people fit for a new Lord who would baptise with the Spirit and fire. Luke's account of the announcing of the birth of John is much longer than his story of the Annunciation to Mary. He emphasises the humility of John, ''I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals.' That is the great lesson of Luke for his community and for us today. We so often put our own interests first; Luke says if you really want to live a life of love and peace and eliminate anger and impatience, then follow Jesus with all your heart. Thirty Latin American people took part in the Christmas Novena tonight, singing, praying and sharing snacks. May the friendship and love we felt together be part of all our lives this Advent and Christmas.

Don Hornsey.