There is a close parallel between the stories of Jesus and John the Baptist. There are also contrasts. Jesus was born to a girl who was a virgin. John was born to a woman beyond child-bearing age. Both are circumcised eight days after birth. The father Zechariah had been struck dumb for doubting the message of the angel. Now, as he insists on the child being called John, his speech comes back. People at once know there is something very special happening here. "What will this child turn out to be?" they ask in wonder. Maybe our parents asked that question too. So far, what has the answer been? Maybe not as good as they or we might like. But it is never too late to change direction and Advent is a very good time to do it.