The prophecy of Malachi announces: “I will send my messenger to prepare the way before me.” After the reforms of Haggai and Zechariah, the people again fell into sin: ignoring the Sabbath, neglecting tithes, and even corrupting temple service. Yet God’s covenant love did not change. Through repentance and faith, his people would be restored. The Church identifies this messenger as John the Baptist, who came like a refiner’s fire, calling people to purity and conversion in preparation for Christ. Luke’s Gospel recounts John’s birth. Though Elizabeth was elderly, she conceived by God’s mercy. John was set apart before birth, called to humility, and destined to point all toward Christ. Each of us is given a new name in baptism and more intimately, God calls us beloved. He invites us not only to obey his commands, but to intimacy with him. Our mission, like John’s, is to direct others to Jesus. Even in weakness or rejection, we are chosen, and sent for his purpose.

Abba Father, help me to reject the things that draw me away from you. Amen.