Shalom

23 Dec Sat	3rd Week of Advent St John of Kanty, priest
	Mal. 3:1-4,23-24 Ps. 24:4-5,8-9,10,14 Lk. 1:57-66 (Ps.Wk. III)

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John the Baptist's conception and birth are closely linked with Jesus. God has made John part of His revealed word in Scripture; now, John is a source of grace for us.

In the circumcision of the child, his mother, Elizabeth, insisted that their son be named "John", not "Zechariah", after his father, as the relatives wanted to have the child named.

His father, Zechariah, who has lost his ability to talk since he didn't believe God's Messenger about the child's conception, now asks for a writing tablet. Then, on it, he writes: "His name is John!"

Zechariah's speech recovers instantly and, filled with the Holy Spirit, praises God with songs.

The name "John" means "Yahweh's gracious gift". John is a gift from God to God's people - he reveals God and points to God (John 1:36).

John, you are sent to prepare God's people for a great gift, the gift of God's Son. John, Yahweh's Gracious Gift! I bless you that in your life, you prepared me for the gift of a closer relationship with Jesus. Amen.

DAILY OFFERING

Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH

INTENTION
We pray that people living with disabilities may be at the centre of attention in society, and that institutions may offer inclusive programmes which value their active participation.
Elaboration

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