6 Miles east of
Jericho – is the Jordan River. At that location, many believe:
-
John the Baptist
Baptized Jesus
-
Joshua led the
people of Israel across the Jordan after the Exodus
-
Elijah returned
bodily to heaven.
Sadly – for the last
50 years it has blocked by land mines. By this time next year, they hope to
have it cleared and open again.
The Jordan River. Out
in the desert.
This is where we meet
that unusual figure – John the Baptist – born of Eliz & Zach
Most consider him the
last and greatest of the OT prophets.
Jesus took him very
seriously “among those born of women none greater than JB”
Church celebrates 3
birthdays
-
Jesus – Dec 25 Mary – Sept 8 JB – June 24
He spent a great deal
of time in desert – why? - no distractions – so he can listen to God. Every now and then – put aside phone, turn
off TV & computer - just be with God
Here is fruit of his
desert time:
1)
He learned about
Humility
“I am not worthy to
untie his sandals” & “he must increase and I must decrease.”
Humility – this is
not putting oneself down. Rather – realizing all is gift. It is putting oneself
in right relationship with God. God is at the center, not me!
Realize – I am not in
control! I Need a Savior - I need
Eucharist - I need prayer
- I need God!
2)
He learned
about Repentance
Our students have
been telling me about Elf on the shelf – a scout sent by Santa from the North
Pole – helps Santa manage his naughty and nice list – goes to NP each night to
make his report about what you were doing.
A tough one – I would
not stand a chance - you see: Baptist knows I will sin, but I also
can be forgiven – Baptist: turn back to God!
Nothing like a good
confession!!! Reconciliation this Monday
from 4-8
3) He learned about Integrity
He was a person of
principle & conviction – told the truth – even challenged the King! People respected him.
Soldiers –
nonbelievers – do not practice extortion, do not accuse anyone falsely.
Tax collectors - believers
but not practicing – stop collecting more than prescribed
Faithful ones –
whoever has 2 cloaks should share with the person who has none. Whoever has
food should do likewise.
Walk the walk - be the same person at church, in school, at home
& work.
On our way to
Bethlehem – need to stop at the Jordan River.
John will be waiting
for us
To teach us about
humility - repentance -
integrity.
To help us prepare
the way for the Lord.
