June 24th: Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Gospel text Lk 1:57-66.80
When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her.
Gospel's Commentary
Today we celebrate the birth of the Baptist. This is exceptional. No wonder! The archangel Gabriel told Zechariah - father of John - that "he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb”. This is why, John – while still inside his mother - jumped with joy when the Virgin Mary - already pregnant of Jesus - arrived at St. Elizabeth’s home. He was not yet born and he was already jumping for joy at Jesus!
- Do you also jump for joy when you hear about Jesus or Mary?