Fr Paul Gooley reads from the Gospel of Luke (1: 57-66) in which Elizabeth gives birth to a son, whom Zechariah named ‘John’.

Fr Paul says the birth-stories of John the Baptist and of Jesus are told in such a way as to bring out the parallels between the two figures, and the special position of each.

  • Both sets of parents are models of the fidelity of Israel, and of trust in the Lord.
  • An angel foretells the miraculous birth of each one.
  • The birth and naming of each one is an occasion of great joy.
  • In each case John is great but Jesus is greater still: The exalted position of John serves to exalt the position of Jesus even further. John will prepare the way; Jesus will be seated on the throne of his father David.
  • Zechariah doubts and is struck dumb; Mary humbly enquires and is blessed.
  •  John’s name means ‘God is gracious’, Jesus’ name is ‘Saviour’.
  • At the birth of John there is joy in the family and neighbours; at the birth of Jesus the joy and singing are by the angels

At the end of this passage John goes out into the desert because it was from the desert that the Messiah was expected to come, and John will be the herald of that voice, crying in the desert in fulfilment of Isaiah, ‘Make straight his paths’.