Readings Birth of John the Baptizer

Romans 9:30-33
Israel’s Unbelief
Brothers and Sisters:
What then are we to say? Gentiles, who did not strive for righteousness, have attained it, that is, righteousness through faith; but Israel, who did strive for the righteousness that is based on the law, did not succeed in fulfilling that law. Why not? Because they did not strive for it on the basis of faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, “See, I am laying in Zion a stone that will make people stumble, a rock that will make them fall, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” Praise be to God always!
Matthew 11:16-19
Jesus Praises John the Baptist
The Lord Jesus said:
“But to what will I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon’; the Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds.” This is the truth. Peace be with you.

The stumbling stone is that Jesus Christ was crucified. This is a great scandal, and yet because of the resurrection it becomes our great salvation.

Lord, have mercy on us and save us.
Hope of the living and Harbor of safety,
where all who are weary and troubled by the surging waves and
misfortunes of this world find rest;
grant that we may safely reach your port,
the place of eternal rest,
with all who have been pleasing to you.
Glory to you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, for ever.
Amen.