Today’s Gospel introduces us to John the Baptist. Isaiah’s “voice crying out in the desert.” We are fascinated by this eccentric character despite his bad fashion sense and an even worse diet. He rages against a corrupt system and challenges all who will listen to own their sinfulness and repent before it is too late. His very presence truly fulfills the words of Isaiah heard today:
“Fear not to cry out
and say to the cities of Judah:
Here is your God!”
Even today, the strange preacher of the desert challenges us as well. Do we have the courage to cry out to all we meet, assuring them that God is here? Do we have the courage to do all we can to prepare the way of our God? We don’t need to change our wardrobe or start eating foods we find in the forest. We need to be confident in our belief in God and willing to share that belief with all who will listen.
Sister Danielle Jacob, CSFN
