A voice cries in the wilderness, ‘Prepare a Way for the Lord’
As we take another step into Advent, the First Reading introduces one of the main themes of this period of the year: Peace. Isaiah paints a picture of the whole world, of people and animals living together in harmony, led by a King who has all the qualities to rule justly.
The Psalm, too, speaks of this hope for peace and justice for all.
St Paul, when he writes to the Romans, also mentions the hope that can be found in Scripture. All the more reason, then, for us to be tolerant of one another, so we can all give glory to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Second Reading)
In this week’s Gospel, John the Baptist appears by the River Jordan to entreat people to repent and prepare a way for the one who is to come. He tells them that being a son or daughter of Abraham will not be enough to be sure of being saved. There is no room for complacency. People are to repent; to change their way of life.
Mindful of this week’s readings, we can perhaps look around us and, by word or deed, encourage people to set out on their journey to meet Jesus at Christmas.
We continue to pray for all those who live in countries where there is no peace.
