Most of this week, during our weekday Masses, we have been reading about the exploits of the prophet Elijah. His earthly life ended with his been taken up into heaven in the fiery chariot. And there was an expectation in Judaism that he would return just prior to the coming of the Messiah.
Now, this weekend, we have the “once in many years” opportunity to celebrate the birthday of John the Baptist on a Sunday. Many people thought in his day that he was Elijah, though he himself claimed he was not. Jesus named him as someone living in the spirit of Elijah.
Why does this matter? In the book of Sirach, we read a summary of Elijah’s ministry. And I quote: “(Elijah,) you sent Kings down to destruction, and easily broke their power into pieces. You brought down nobles, from their beds of sickness. You heard threats at Sinai, at Horeb avenging judgments. You anointed Kings who should inflict vengeance, and a prophet as your successor.”
Our gospel reading this weekend talks about the birth of John the Baptist, but it leaves out the canticle of his father, which concludes with “And you, child, will be called prophet of the Most High, …read more
Source:: Fr. Frank Jindra’s Homily Podcasts
