John the Baptizer
Read Luke 3:1-18
"He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight."
Here we find a summary statement of John’s ministry. Verses one through six begin describing John’s ministry for us. We know that John was the prophet going ahead of Jesus, preparing the people for him. Beginning with verse seven, we find John’s messages to his listeners. He challenges the people who come to be baptized. He prepares them for the arrival of Jesus’ ministry, telling them to share their clothes, food, money, etc. People cannot extort money and lie about one another. But this alone is not enough.
John tells them that someone greater than he is coming after him who will baptize them with the Holy Spirit. The world will not be set right by their actions alone. It will take the full power of the Holy Spirit. In order to be ready for the Holy Spirit, these people were baptized by John before Jesus’ arrival. So, how might we be prepared to participate in setting the world right? How might we be made ready for the arrival of Christ and the Holy Spirit?
Weston Pendergrass
God of Advent, kindle within us the flame of hope. Help us be your beacons of hope for people and places weighed down by hopelessness. As we enter with you into this Advent journey, help us to be your mind, heart, and hands in the world. For we pray in your name. Amen.
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