Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint John the Baptist (d.30)

Saint John the Baptist was a selflessly giving religious reformer. He is quoted in Matthew 3:11 as saying, "I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." He had many followers, but he was never boastful, and knew that his calling was to lead these hopeful people to Jesus. He baptized Jesus, and afterward told his disciples to follow Jesus. He lived a very simple and humble lifestyle, wearing a tunic made out of camel hair and living off the land. John the Baptist died on the order of King Herod, who ordered that he be beheaded.

Reflection

Saint John the Baptist is an example toward which we should all strive. Like John the Baptist, we are obliged to point others to Jesus. By the example of our lives as Christians, we, like John the Baptist, can prepare others to know and accept Jesus. How do you live your life in a way that reflects the passion and importance of Jesus?

Prayer

Dear Jesus, fill me so abundantly with your love that it overflows into every area of my life and influences all the people in my life.

Meditations

Meditation for Gospel

When a friend dies because of a sickness, violence, or an accident, we are devastated. How could it happen? The person had so much to live for. It all seems so unfair. We are sad and angry. That's how the friends of John the Baptist felt. Jesus was saddened by the death of John the Baptist. John was his cousin, his friend, his colleague in spreading the Good News. After John's death Jesus withdrew to a quiet place to have time for reflection. When we experience the loss of someone we love, it is good to take time alone to reflect on the meaning of the person's life and the person's impact on our life. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)