The LORD called me from birth, from my mother’s womb he gave me my name. // Isaiah 49:1

Today the Church celebrates the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist. Although there is much that can be said about him, I want to invite you, sister, to turn with me for a moment first to his father, Zechariah. 

Zechariah is sometimes only described as the doubter who did not believe the promise made to him by the angel Gabriel. But I think we can be a bit more forgiving, since he was, after all, an “old man” (Luke 1:18). In today’s Gospel  we can see that the faith of this man grew stronger and wider in the silence as John grew strong in the seclusion of his mother’s womb (see Luke 1:57-66, 80). The boldness of Zechariah’s deepening faith went on full display at the birth of his son. 

As the relatives came and sought to name the child after his father—an honor, no doubt—Zechariah did not hesitate. He confirmed the words of his wife, Elizabeth, by writing, “John is his name” (Luke 1:63). He did not try to defend their decision or give an acceptable explanation as to why his only son was not going to bear his name. Instead, he spoke with the authority that comes when one knows and believes in the divine will that is revealed to him. 

This son of theirs belonged to the Lord from the moment he was in his mother’s womb. There was a mission that the Lord had for John to fulfill. Zechariah was a witness to the miracle of life which is in fact true of each human being: the Lord knows us. We were hidden from others, yes, but not from His gaze. He has formed us in our mother’s womb (see Psalm 139:13). And He calls us (see Isaiah 49:1). 

Sister, take a moment to reflect on your parents, the time you spent growing in the silence of your mother’s womb, your birth. The Lord formed you with purpose and care. You are here for a reason. 

Saint John the Baptist, pray for us that we may know the Lord in greater measure and fulfill His mission for our lives. Amen.