THE NATIVITY OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST (SOLEMNITY)

I will make you a light to the nations.

In much of the Northern Hemisphere, today’s feast coincides with the time fireflies first appear. It’s a fitting connection because although John the Baptist’s birth ushered in a whole new age in salvation history, his beginning was just a spark that was as hard to catch as a lightning bug.

It was clear to Zechariah and Elizabeth’s neighbors that something special was afoot when John was born: this formerly childless couple was too old to be having a baby. And his name—not Zechariah like his father—was unexpected. Then, after being mute for nine months, Zechariah amazed them all by bursting into praise at his son’s naming. What were they to make of it all?

Only eyes of faith could see in this infant the mighty prophet God had sent to prepare his people for the Messiah. John was destined to be the spark that would bring light to the nations. But his beginning was small indeed.

In a similar way, our understanding of God’s ways often begins with just a glimmer. And that’s a mercy. It’s easier on our eyes than if God were to suddenly shine the full brightness of his light on us.

This side of heaven, none of us will fully understand the mysteries of who God is and how he works with his people. We may catch glimpses and occasional flashes of light. But unlike captured fireflies whose light swiftly dims, these glimpses build and grow in intensity as we treasure them and savor and explore them.

So don’t be discouraged if you catch only a glimpse of God’s love and his plan. Rejoice in what you do grasp, and ask the Holy Spirit to shed more light to deepen your understanding.

Here’s a way to begin. Slow down and reread today’s Scriptures. Is there a word or phrase that ignites your interest or resonates with your spirit? Stop there. Linger with that spark and see where it leads you.

“Lord Jesus, lead me ever closer to you, for you are the Light of the World and the light of my life.”

Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15
Acts 13:22-26
Luke 1:57-66, 80