JOHN THE BAPTIST was born of Elizabeth and Zechariah, who were both advanced in years. He was given the name John which means "God is gracious", for God has given a miracle baby to aged parents. He grew up strong in spirit and lived in the desert like a hermit in preparation for his mission to prepare the coming of the Messiah, his cousin Jesus Christ. John was baptizing people in the Jordan River as a sign of their repentance. He even baptized Christ. Then he introduced Christ to the people: "Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." Later on, he was imprisoned for having criticized the king who was living an adulterous life. Then on the birthday of the king, Salome, daughter of Herodias, asked for the head of John the Baptist. So the king ordered John to be beheaded. John gave his life in defense of God's command: "You shall not commit adultery."(Painting: John the Baptist by Murillo)
No comments:
Post a Comment