What we need to remember as we follow Christ
Reflections on the readings for the Second Sunday of Advent (December 9, 2018): BAR 5:1-9; PS 126:1-2,2-3,4-5,6; PHIL 1:4-6,8-11; LK 3:1-6
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
The mission of St. John the Baptist in preparing the Jewish people for the coming of the Messiah is a key part of this season of Advent.
John’s life focused completely on following the will of God by pointing the way to His Beloved Son. John urged all who would listen to turn away from sin and to open themselves to the mercy and goodness of the Lord. “John went throughout the whole region of the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: A voice of one crying out in the desert: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.… And all flesh shall see the salvation of God” (Luke 3:3-4, 6).
Whether addressing the men and women of two thousand years ago or of today, St. John the Baptist encourages God’s people to make a path straight to Him. Instead of allowing temptation to become sin and to create overwhelming obstacles between our Lord and ourselves, we need to recommit ourselves to our faith. We need to recognize our faults and ask God’s grace and guidance in putting Him first in our lives. Every single one of us has sinned. And each of us stands must willingly offer a contrite heart to our Father through His Son, our Savior.
Celebrate Advent with the missions of the Church. Visit MISSIO.org.
