I
waited – and waited – watching the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center.
Finally, after about 1 hour and 10 minutes – a Christmas Carol – the First Noel
– two verses - born is the King of Israel.
But still, no mention of the name. I would wait in vain – entertainers sold
their Christmas albums – a network drew attention to their TV shows – a tree
was lit – but no mention of his name. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus – yet
the name of Jesus was not said – not even once.
So,
imagine now talking about John the Baptist? What does he have to do with Christmas?
On the way to Bethlehem – we must cross the Jordan River.
This
is where we meet him – the Baptist.
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”
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 -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. It is putting God first. It is about having
our priorities in order!
I
Need a Savior. I need Eucharist - I
need prayer - I need God!
2) He learned about Repentance
The
Christmas celebrated at Rockefeller Center was all about externals – and we can
easily celebrate Christmas that way – decorate, put up trees, sing songs, send
cards, go to parties, get gifts. But the Baptist knew it was about preparing a
place Inside – in our hearts – a place where the Savior can be born. So, he
said – turn to God. Not easy – but we can be forgiven!!!
Nothing
like a good confession!!! Reconciliation
Monday Dec 16 from 4-8
3) He
learned about Integrity
He
was a person of principle & conviction – told the truth with love.
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. Not afraid to witness to his faith. Best way???
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.
