The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 1:57-66.80.
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 1:57-66.80.
When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child, she gave birth to a son.
Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her.
When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John."
But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name."
So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called.
He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God.
Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea.
All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?" For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.
The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.
***
In his homily, Fr. Dexter Carr shared the meanings of the names of the central characters in the Gospel: Zechariah (God remembers), Elizabeth (Oath of God), and John (God is gracious). He said that in the olden times, a child's name determines his destiny, that's why it is carefully chosen by the parents and the elders.
These days, children are named after the most popular stars, characters, cars, food, and whatever is "in." But if we really think about it, a person's name can greatly affect his/her future, and in some cases, even become a curse (if they become victims of bullying).
Today, we are reminded to be responsible adults by naming our children properly. *wink* But let's also take time to ponder on our own names, and allow the Lord to reveal to us the great destiny that awaits us. Let us also remember that first and foremost, we are CHILDREN OF GOD and we share in the mission of Jesus to make God known and build His kingdom here and now.
Soooo...
Because I have a very unique name and I am also curious about what it means (at least according to the internet), I looked it up and here's what I found:
Source: Names.org |
Very affirming! If this is true, then I am more determined to live up to my name! ♥
By the way, it's pronounced as YUNAYZA. :D
How about you, what's your name? :)
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