Homily for Saturday of the 3rd Week of Advent

Naming a child can sometimes lead to disagreements within families. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to naming their children, but ultimately, the parents get to decide.

Zechariah and Elizabeth's relatives and neighbors expected them to name their son "Zechariah" after his father, following traditional customs. However, Zechariah and Elizabeth believed that God had a different name in mind for their child.

During this period, conventional practices were set aside as God was doing something new. This child was going to be unlike any other child, and people wondered what he would grow up to become.

John the Baptist had a significant role to play in preparing people for the coming of someone greater than himself, someone who would be known as Emmanuel, which means "God is with us." God was working in a new way, forging a new agreement with humanity. This incredible gift is what we celebrate during Christmas, and it should always fill us with joy and gratitude.