ACC ~ Luke 1 v59 - 63

CIRCUMCISION ON THE EIGHTH DAY AN IMAGE OF THE RESURRECTION

BEDE: John’s circumcision clearly set forth an image of the Lord’s resurrection because it too occurred on the eighth day, that is, on the day after the sabbath. And just as the former was wont to release people from the punishable state of everlasting death, so the latter displayed the perfect newness of immortal life in our Creator, and revealed that it is to be hoped for in us. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPELS 2.20. [1]

[1] CS 111:208*.

JOHN’S NAME MEANS “GRACE OF GOD

” BEDE: John means “the grace of God” or “in whom there is grace.” By this name are expressed the entire extent of the grace of the gospel dispensation which he was to proclaim, and especially the Lord himself, through whom this grace was to be granted to the world. …

As to his subsequent declaration and confirmation of the name of John, and the opening of Zechariah’s mouth and his speaking, blessing God, it is surely evident that once the grace of the new covenant was manifested by the apostles, a large number of priests also became obedient to the faith. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPELS 2.20. [1]

[1] CS 111:206-7.

JOHN’S BIRTH ANTICIPATES CHRIST’S ADVENT

ANONYMOUS: O forerunner of Christ! … O Baptist inspired by God! We glorify Christ who bowed his head before you in the Jordan and sanctified the nature of mortal humankind… .

O wise John the forerunner, you have looked down from the bank of the river upon the glory of the Father’s Word, even the Son as he stood in the waters; and you have seen the Spirit descend as a dove, cleansing and enlightening the ends of the earth. To you the mystery of the Trinity was revealed; and to you we sing, honoring your divine festival.

O Baptist and forerunner, strengthened by the divine grace of Christ you have shown us the lamb that takes away all the sins of the world, [1] and with joy you have this day brought two disciples to him. [2] Entreat him that peace and great mercy may be given to our souls. SYNAXIS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST. [3]

[1] Jn 1:29, 35-36

[2] Jn 1:35-42.

[3] FM 388-89**.