On this Second Sunday of Advent, we are thrust into the heart of the Good News. Mark's Gospel begins not with a Nativity narrative but with the proclamation of salvation. It starts with the powerful words, "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." Mark is eager to get to the point, to announce the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah.
In the verses that follow, we encounter John the Baptist, a figure clothed in camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist. Mark introduces us to John by quoting the prophecies of the Prophet Isaiah: "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." These words resonate through the ages as the heralding cry of John, a voice calling out in anticipation of the coming Messiah. John, with his unique attire and ascetic lifestyle, should capture our attention not for his eccentricity, but for the urgency and importance of his message.
The wilderness, often a desolate and challenging place, serves as a metaphor for our hearts when they are distant from God. In the midst of our personal wilderness, John's proclamation echoes, inviting us to prepare the way for the Lord. But how do we prepare? What does John’s call entail? John's baptism of repentance symbolizes the starting point of our preparation. It is an outward sign of an inward transformation, a commitment to turn away from sin and make room for the grace of God. John's baptism with water foreshadows the baptism that Jesus will bring – a baptism in water and of the Holy Spirit.
Advent is a season of preparation. It is more than decking the halls, shopping, and wrapping presents; it's about making our hearts ready for the coming of Christ. In a culture that often emphasizes the external aspects of the season, the call to prepare in the wilderness of our hearts remains central. We are invited to reflect on our lives, identify areas in need of God's grace, and actively seek repentance. Repentance, far from being a gloomy exercise, is an invitation to freedom and joy. It is the path to experiencing the transforming power of God's love. As we repent, we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing God to make straight the paths of our hearts and guide us in the way of righteousness.
During this Advent season, let us embrace the call to prepare with a sense of urgency and hope. Just as John's voice echoed in the wilderness, may our lives echo the message of repentance and joyful expectation. As we eagerly await the celebration of Christ's birth, may the Holy Spirit help us to make our hearts a fitting dwelling place for our Savior.
Christmas Cantata
The Adult Choir here at CTK and the choir of Laurel United Methodist Church, accompanied by an orchestra of local musicians, will present a Christmas Concert this Sunday and Monday; Sunday, December 10th at 4:00PM at Laurel United Methodist, 631 South Grand Avenue West and here at CTK on Monday evening, the 11th, at 7:00PM. The concert is free and all are welcome. Thank you to Linda and all of our musicians for helping us to prepare for the joy of Christmas!
Blessings to you and yours for the week ahead!
Father Chris House