Isaiah 61:1-4, Isaiah 61:8-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, John 1:19-28

“Advent” literally means “coming.” This sacred season is for the purpose of Jesus coming to us and coming for us. As we count down the days until Christmas, our hearts are getting ready to celebrate Jesus’ initial arrival, His first advent, when He entered into our world as the babe of Bethlehem. At the same time, we prepare our hearts for His second advent, His final coming, when He will return to earth to judge both the living and the dead and to give eternal life to all who trust in Him. Our Readings for today remind us of the special ministry of John the Baptist, who came as a witness to Christ, the light of the world. John himself was not the light, nor was he the centerpiece of God’s plan to save the world; no, John’s life was dedicated to preparing the way before the Lord and to get people ready for Jesus coming to save us. In many ways, we are invited to be like John: to trust in Jesus, our Savior and King, and then let the world know He is coming to the rescue of His people.