People of Advent,
In this season of waiting, we have been called to examine and prepare by John the Baptist. We have looked at Hope and Peace. Last week, Luke 3:1-6 told us to repent and prepare the way.
This week we look at Joy.
At face value, this week’s text from Luke 3:7-18 is more of the apocalyptic craziness from John the Baptist. He says, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance.”
We might ask ourselves, “Where is the good news? Where is the joy? What does this have to do with Christmas?”
Do you have an answer? Perhaps not. However, we are called to seek.
John continues to cry from the wilderness, exhorting us to look within and change from the inside out. Inviting us into a renewal in a baptism that leads to Joy. The Joy that will “baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
I look forward to being with you Sunday.
Rev. Michael Cronin