Birth of John the Baptist Feast
The birth of John the Baptist, six months before Christmas - the only birthday besides Christ's that the calendar keeps. Zechariah, mute since the announcement, writes the child's name and speaks again; John 3:30 gives the life its measure: he must increase, but I must decrease.
When it falls
Thursday
The verses for the day
- And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;Luke 1:76
- He must increase, but I {must} decrease.John 3:30
- For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.Matthew 3:3
The place
Jordan River
The Jordan River is the most significant river in biblical history, flowing from Mount Hermon to the Dead Sea. The Israelites miraculously crossed it to enter the Promised Land under Joshua. Naaman was healed of leprosy by washing in its waters. Most importantly, John the Baptist baptized Jesus in this river, marking the beginning of his public ministry. The river symbolizes transition, cleansing, and new beginnings.
