| Today’s Scriptures: Lectionary selections from the Revised Common Lectionary Year C Psalm 126 Isaiah 35:3-7 Luke 7:18-30 |
| Today’s Reflection: As we come to the conclusion of week two of Advent and the focus on peace, we return again to the topics of repentance and salvation through descriptions of the ministries of John and Jesus. Both topics disrupt and change our lives so drastically. Such disruptions usually cause anything but peace; however, in the case of repentance and salvation, both bring exactly that.
The repentance symbolized in the ministry of John removes a weight and burden from the person making the confession. Removing the secrecy of sin, minor or major, removes the guilt that comes from the knowledge of having done wrong. Whether to God or another person, admitting that I have done wrong allows me to move beyond that guilt and keep an inner peace.
The salvation that comes from the ministry of Jesus leads to the ultimate peace. Knowing that no matter what happens we have the Lord’s promise of salvation that leads to eternal peace. Regardless of the life changing effects that come with salvation, that feeling of peace pervades every situation.
In the ministry of John the Baptist, we see a cleansed living that provides a pathway to God. In the ministry of Jesus, we see a restoration to complete living through gifts from God. Repentance and salvation both guide us into the peace that God desires for all of us. We need to embrace the joy that comes from each. |
| Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org |
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