In this week’s Gospel, we meet John the Baptist — a striking and unsettling figure whose message still echoes powerfully across the centuries: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand.” John’s call to repentance is not simply about sorrow for sin; it is an invitation to a new way of seeing — a transformation of heart and mind that opens us to God’s presence and purpose. Advent is a season of preparation, and John’s voice reminds us that genuine preparation begins within.
The people who came to John in the wilderness were being asked to change their perspective. They had grown used to seeing life through narrow lenses of habit, self-interest, and expectation. John challenges them — and us — to step back and see the fuller picture of what God is doing. An image might be that of a person looking at a picture and seeing only a small section of it. If that individual can alter their perspective, they will see more of the picture and get a truer view of the artist’s work. So too with us: when we change the way we look at life, we begin to see God’s design more clearly, to recognise that even in the rough strokes and darker tones, there is divine artistry at work.
John’s message prepares the way for Christ, who will baptise not only with water but “with the Holy Spirit and fire.” The fire of the Spirit burns away what is false and refines what is good. Advent, then, is not merely a time of waiting but of allowing that refining to take place — to let go of what limits our vision and embrace the hope that comes with Christ’s nearness.
As we journey through this second week of Advent, John’s call urges us to lift our eyes, widen our hearts, and renew our perspective. In doing so, we begin to see the fuller picture of God’s mercy and truth — and to prepare a clear path for the Lord to enter our lives.
Fr Stephen Berecz
