of you, to prepare your way. Let the people hear the voice calling in the desert: Prepare the
way of the Lord, level his paths.” So John began to baptize in the desert; he preached a
baptism of repentance, for the forgiveness of sins. 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.”
READ: Isaiah prophesies to the people of Israel that God will send a
messenger who will announce their return from exile. God will gently lead
his people home. The Second Letter of Peter reminds us that God does not
work on our schedule. The day of the Lord will come when God wishes.
We have only to prepare in hope and peace. John the Baptist makes his
appearance in the Gospel, calling the people to repent of their sins to be
ready for the one who is to come.
REFLECT: Being a messenger can be a difficult task. It’s easy to share good
news and tell people what they want to hear. But being the bearer of bad
tidings is far less pleasant. It can even be dangerous. In some ancient societies,
messengers who brought bad news were killed! Still, we are called to follow the
example of John the Baptist, preparing the way of the Lord by calling people to
conversion through a personal encounter with Jesus. Even more, we need to
show the way by forgiving others, repenting of our sins and living a simple life.
PRAY: Lord, come quickly. Do not delay!
ACT: Offer comfort and assistance to someone facing difficulties.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023