The gospel today tells the story of the birth of John the Baptist. Tomorrow is Christmas eve, when most of the world will begin celebrating the birth of baby Jesus later in the evening or at midnight Mass. But, many people do not know that John the Baptist himself has a feast day celebrating his birth on June 24th each year. It is called the Feast of the Nativity of John the Baptist. It is fitting today though, that it is not the Feast of the Nativity of John the Baptist.
2014
Pain and joy in giving up a son
She had wanted him so badly. Longed for him. Begged God for him. One might think Hannah would have been tempted to go back on her promise and keep her son. Who could blame her? She had been barren so long. But she didn’t. She knew God had a plan for her and for her son, Samuel. She took him to Eli and left him there to serve the Lord. She left Samuel there.
Christmas is About Love and Forgiveness
The true meaning of Christmas is about love and forgiveness. God sent His son into the world to die for our sins because He loves mankind. In the gospel story today, the first thing the angel said when he appeared to Mary was: “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” Grace does not enter into a heart that is closed to love. Mary was born without sin, but she also loved God deeply.