All Judea and all the people from the city of Jerusalem went out to John to confess their sins,
and to be baptized by him in the river Jordan. John was clothed in camel’s hair and wore a leather belt around his waist.
His food was locusts and honey. He preached to the people, saying, “After me comes one who is more powerful than I am;
I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.”
LECTIO DIVINA:
Read: The readings proclaim God’s gracious answer to Israel’s prayer for mercy last Sunday.
Isaiah speaks of an end to the travails of the exiled people of God, that God has “repented of his anger”
is now about to reveal his mercy. In the fullness of time the Savior will come. Nevertheless, the Lord,
who will come at the end of time, expects his people to prepare the way for his return as Lord and judge.
Fortunately, the Lord sends prophets like John the Baptist, to prepare us for “The Day of the Lord.”
For those who are prepared that day would be a day of joy; for those who are not prepared it would be a fearful day.
Reflect: We seek the mercy of God. Truly, our God is full of compassion and mercy.
Nevertheless, God desires us to repent as we heed the prophets the Lord always sends our way.
John the Baptist then, our Church and her pastors today.
Pray: Are you afraid of the “Day of the Lord,” the day of final reckoning? Are you afraid to die? Or better,
are you prepared to die, to see the face of God?
Act: Pope Francis says that God is always ready to forgive, but often we are the ones who are very hesitant in seeking his mercy and forgiveness.
Remembering that we will one day be called to judgment, now is the time to prepare for that day by following the preaching of John the Baptist.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2020
