The Epistle from Philippians 4:4-7 has a somewhat lighter tone because of the exhortation to rejoice, but still reminds us that "the Lord is at hand." When we think of the coming of Christ, we must first recall our need to repent. The human condition is serious, but we do have a true reason to rejoice. Despite our sinfulness, we have hope because of the peace that God brings through Christ.
The Gospel from St. John 1:19-28 is another Advent reference to the message of John the Baptist. When the Jerusalem authorities send representatives to ask who he is, John refuses the usual titles. He will only admit to being "the voice of one crying in the wilderness" (John 1:23 ; Isaiah 40:3). He makes the way ready for the Lord; he baptizes with water to represent repentance and cleansing from sin. But the One coming after John is much greater.
The Gospel from St. John 1:19-28 is another Advent reference to the message of John the Baptist. When the Jerusalem authorities send representatives to ask who he is, John refuses the usual titles. He will only admit to being "the voice of one crying in the wilderness" (John 1:23 ; Isaiah 40:3). He makes the way ready for the Lord; he baptizes with water to represent repentance and cleansing from sin. But the One coming after John is much greater.
This Gospel puts a brake on our rush to celebration. John the Baptist reminds us that the way for the Christ must be prepared. The One who is to come is greater than even the greatest human prophet. So let us use the last days of Advent for spiritual preparations. Let us focus on prayer, meditation on Scripture and renewed efforts to run the race set before us. As we get ready to celebrate Christ's first coming in humility, let us also remember that He keeps coming to us. Because He is holy, He naturally brings judgment upon our sin, but even more importantly, He offers us grace, mercy and peace.
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