How seamlessly Zechariah’s prophecy in our last reading flows into seeing John the Baptist’s purpose up close and personal. The Gospel of Mark doesn’t waste any time in recording Jesus’ ministry becoming known. Mark skips past the Christmas story and jumps to Jesus’ grand appearance in the world he created. (Yes, Jesus was extremely active during creation – but that’s a totally different reflection.)
John the Baptist had been born to be that voice “shouting in the wilderness” about the coming Messiah, King Jesus. What a magnificent honor John had. I think that all of those early followers must have been a bit starry-eyed at being around Jesus once they discovered his identity as the Messiah. John did call him the “greater” one.
Jesus was coming, John had said. John wanted all the people to repent and be cleansed so they would be ready to receive their coming Lord. It’s important then for us to also keep ourselves pure and blameless before our Lord. Why should we think that anything has changed? Is it just because Jesus isn’t in our midst keeping tabs on us?
But I believe Jesus is watching and present all the time. That’s probably why I do what I call “popcorn prayers” often. By that, I mean that at the drop of a hat, I’ll break into prayer. I don’t have a set location or prayer room as some people do. But when a prayer “pops” in my head, I pray wherever I am because I know Jesus is there and listening.
Today, a friend and I were planning an upcoming event, and all of a sudden, “Siri” started speaking out of nowhere, trying to answer a question we had talked about. If that wasn’t a creepy experience, I’m sure you can relate! But much more calming to me is the thought that Jesus is listening and ready to respond.
How does your faith in the coming Jesus as a teacher, guide, and Savior stand out at this time of year? John the Baptist was outspoken and visible, doing his best to announce Jesus’ arrival and make everything ready. What sins do you want to confess that you may have been holding on to? Is it time to lay them down and trust Jesus?
John tells us that Jesus will share the Holy Spirit with his followers. We may say we’re believers, but are we followers, too? John didn’t feel worthy of Jesus, and sometimes we feel the same way. Never forget Romans 5:8, which says, “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”
John is preparing the way in this text. Jesus had arrived. Are we acting like John in any way to announce Jesus’ return? This Advent, we remember and celebrate both the first coming and return of Jesus in our reflections and activities in December. Look for an opportunity today to speak about Jesus from your heart.
Let’s pray. Lord, I know I have messed up plenty in my life, but I have repented as John suggests. Your forgiveness is there for me. Thank you for your unfailing love and grace. Help me to be the light in the wilderness that helps others find you so they can be ready for Jesus’ return, too. Give me the courage to tell others about Jesus and his great love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
