Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Luke 1: 57-66
December  23, 2025 | Tuesday

Today’s Gospel

When the time came for Elizabeth, she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the merciful Lord had done a wonderful thing for her, and they rejoiced with her.

When, on the eighth day, they came to attend the circumcision of the child, they wanted to name him Zechariah after his father. But his mother said, “Not so; he shall be called John.” They said to her, “But no one in your family has that name!” and they made signs to his father for the name he wanted to give him. Zechariah asked for a writing tablet, and wrote on it, “His name is John;” and they were very surprised. Immediately, Zechariah could speak again, and his first words were in praise of God.

A holy fear came on all in the neighborhood, and throughout the hill country of Judea the people talked about these events. All who heard of it, pondered in their minds, and wondered, “What will this child be?” For they understood that the hand of the Lord was with him.

Today’s Reflection

The Gospel passage recounts the awe- inspiring, miraculous birth of John the Baptist and the profound significance of his name, which means “graced by God” or “God is gracious” (Heb. Yohanan).

This name encapsulates God’s undeserved graciousness to the old and barren Elizabeth and Zechariah. When Zechariah confirms the name given by the angel (Lk 1:13), his speech is restored. This act of obedience and faith, a testament to their trust in God, is a miraculous sign that illustrates how God’s grace can heal and restore us. In his Sermon 293, Saint Augustine emphasizes that God’s grace is open to all willing to receive it. “God gives where He finds empty hands.” Zechariah’s acceptance and proclamation of his son’s divinely appointed name is an act of opening himself to God’s grace.

The Gospel passage poignantly reminds us of the profound significance of names in biblical narratives. The name John particularly stands as a testament to God’s gracious acts throughout salvation history. It beckons us to reflect on God’s graciousness in our own lives, acknowledging the myriad ways He has blessed us and continues to guide us.

As we journey through this season of Advent, let us pause to give thanks for God’s profound graciousness, which is beautifully embodied in the birth of John the Baptist. May we, like Zechariah and Elizabeth, open our hearts to God’s miraculous ways in our lives.

/Vulnerasti, 2025