The child grew and became strong in spirit,
and he was in the desert until the day
of his manifestation to Israel.

Luke 1:80

Luke 1:57-66, 80

Reflection

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of John the Baptist, the last prophet of the Old Covenant. Elizabeth gives birth to her son and names him John, according to what was told to Zechariah, his father. Everyone wonders at this and what the child will be. John grows up, strong in spirit, and remains in the desert until he comes to Israel to proclaim repentance.

John the Baptist came to herald the Messiah, his own cousin – Jesus! He lived in the desert and was most likely very close to God, learning from him and growing in faith for many years. At the appointed time, he came forth to declare a baptism of repentance. We, too, can enter into the desert to be with God.

Going into the desert means leaving worldly cares behind and simply being with God. When we let go of our worries and suffering, and simply go rest in the desert with our Lord, we discover more about ourself and God. It can be scary to be vulnerable with Christ and enter into the desert with him. We can ask for the intercession of John the Baptist to help us do this, for he knows what it is like to live in a desert and go out to proclaim Christ to the world.

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Saint of the Day

St. John the Baptist

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son…. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Luke 1:57, 63