John the Baptist preaches with a great sense of urgency and drama. Because he is at peace with himself, he has the courage to be direct in his witness to God’s grace coming into the world through the birth of Jesus Christ. In Advent as we prepare for Christ’s coming let us reflect on what we can do to be at peace with ourselves and each other.
John appears as one who had the courage to be himself in the face of opposition. He was also a person who knew his own value, did not make exaggerated claims and was content with his mission. Can you recall times when you have been content to be yourself, without pretending to be more than you are? What was it like to have that freedom even in the face of criticism from others?
