Preparing for What is to Come

December 8, 2024
Philippians 1:3-11, Luke 3:1-6
Hope and dread are not all that far off from one another. In fact, one could turn to the other quite quickly. Luke shares with us the rulers of the land leading up to the introduction of John the Baptist not only to identify the point in time that all of this occurs but possibly to demonstrate the powers of the world that are lord in the time. John’s message is, of course, in stark contrast to the messages of these rulers and would have been heard in many ways. Tiberius, Pontius Pilate, and Herod might have heard John’s message as a threat whereas the poor and oppressed, the Jews looking for a savior would have heard the message hopeful. One prepares for war while the other dives into water seeking forgiveness. Our preparations demonstrate our faith, are we hopeful of a better future and the promises of God or do we dread and fear what lies ahead?