Readings Birth of John the Baptizer

Romans 9:14-18
God’s Election of Israel
Brothers and Sisters:
What then are we to say? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” So it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God who shows mercy. For the scripture says to Pharaoh, “I have raised you up for the very purpose of showing my power in you, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth.” So then he has mercy on whomever he chooses, and he hardens the heart of whomever he chooses. Praise be to God always!
Matthew 17:9-13
The Transfiguration
The Apostle said:
As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” And the disciples asked him, “Why, then, do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” He replied, “Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist. This is the truth. Peace be with you.

Elijah will come again before the second coming of Jesus. Yet, John also comes with the Spirit of Elijah. Both John and Elijah come because of the mercy of God. God is merciful and wants people to choose His mercy and love. In sending a forerunner God is telling us that He is coming soon.

Lord, have mercy on us and save us.
O holy One,
you sanctify the saints who, through the Holy Spirit,
proclaim your holiness;
sanctify us, that we also may acknowledge you as all holy.
Our Lord and God, in whom we place all our hope,
we praise and call upon you,
now and for ever.
Amen.