God Gave us Freedom!

 

12th week Tuesday in ordinary Time

Isa 49:1-6

Meditation

God Gave us Freedom!

Is it possible that we are fashioned in the mother's womb? Is it possible that we are destined for good or bad while in the mother's womb?  Being formed in the mother's womb as a human person, spiritual person and destination for good takes place in the mother's womb. The destination of the human person is not negativity but the freedom of the child of God. No mother wishes to have a child who would become evil.

All mothers long and dream that their child will be a great king/queen and hero/heroin, and even they would be great men/women of God. In like manner, the wish of God for a child is for a bright future with a lot of possibilities of life. It was something similar in the case of the birth of St John the Baptist. Mary was present at the birth of St John Baptist, and she cared for him initial days long with St Elizabeth. John the Baptist was destined to be the greatest Prophet. His birth is the end of the old era and the beginning of the new era in Jesus. 

Are we aware God created us with the freedom to be his child?

Acts 13:22-26

After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised. Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel. As John was completing his work, he said: ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’ Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.”

Do we, like David, have hearts that seek after God — even in our failures?

Lk 1:57-66, 66,80

This passage recounts the birth and naming of John the Baptist, and it’s rich with spiritual meaning, obedience, and divine revelation.

Elizabeth’s pregnancy itself is a miracle — she conceived in her old age after a lifetime of barrenness. Her neighbors recognize this as a sign of God’s mercy, reminding us that God’s timing is not ours, and His blessings often come after long seasons of waiting and faith.

The naming of the child is another key moment. According to custom, the baby would normally be named after a family member — likely his father, Zechariah. But both Elizabeth and Zechariah affirm the name “John,” as commanded by the angel Gabriel (Luke 1:13). This shows their obedience and submission to God’s will, even when it defied expectations or tradition.

When Zechariah writes, “His name is John,” his speech is miraculously restored. This moment reflects the power of faith and obedience to unlock praise and witness. Zechariah’s initial doubt had silenced him, but his obedience brings restoration and rejoicing. He immediately uses his voice to glorify God — a beautiful reminder that our mouths are meant to speak praise and truth.

Finally, the people are filled with awe, and they ask, “What then is this child going to be?” They sense something extraordinary is unfolding. Indeed, John would become the forerunner of the Messiah, preparing the way for Jesus through a life of bold preaching and humility.

Do I trust God’s timing, even when it feels delayed or impossible?

Nativity of St John the Baptist (Sol)

Fr Putti Anthaiah Sdb