Homily for Monday of the 4th Week of Advent

Naming a child can often lead to family disagreements, as everyone has their own preferences. Ultimately, however, the parents have the final say in the decision.

In the case of Zechariah and Elizabeth, their relatives and neighbors expected them to name their son "Zechariah" after his father, in keeping with traditional customs. Nevertheless, Zechariah and Elizabeth believed that God had a different name in mind for their child.

Conventional practices were set aside during this time because God was starting something new. This child was destined to be unlike any other, and people were curious about what he would become.

John the Baptist would play a significant role in preparing people for the coming of someone greater than himself—someone known as Emmanuel, which means "God is with us." God was working in a new way, establishing a new covenant with humanity. This extraordinary gift is what we celebrate during Christmas, and it should always inspire us with joy and gratitude.