Saturday of the Third Week of Advent
Today’s Gospel is about the birth and naming of John the Baptist. There is a whole conversation between Elizabeth, Zechariah, and their relatives of what the baby’s name should be. The name John didn’t run in their family, but it was the name that the angel Gabriel told Zechariah to name his son.
This passage reminds me of the origins of my name. I was named after my grandmother Emilia, so my parents decided to give me the English version of that name: Emily. Names mean many things. John’s name means God is gracious in Hebrew. As a prophet who prepared the way for Jesus, John’s name fit him. He pointed people to Jesus. Jesus who is God with us ( the meaning of the name Emmanuel) is the ultimate sign of God’s graciousness and mercy.
As we approach the Fourth Sunday of Advent, we know that Christmas is very near. You might be busy doing things to prepare for the holiday, but I suggest taking a pause to pray and remember that ultimately Christmas is a time for Christ to be born in our hearts so that God’s graciousness can be seen through us.
Have a blessed, holy, and merry Christmas!
-Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI