Luke 3:1-3

“In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius…the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins…vss. 1a, 2b-3

Luke traces John’s ministry to a precise time and place in history. Even though we would love to know a bit more of John’s background, that is not provided. Based on his message and location some have linked him to the Essene community at Qumran, close to where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. If that was the case, he would have been very familiar with water baptisms, a concern for purity, and the message of repentance. John did not remain within the community walls however, but traveled about the whole region, exposing brokenness, and pointing the way to new life. He must have been a powerful preacher, because thousands traveled all the way to the Jordan from as far away as Jerusalem and Galilee to hear him speak, confess their sins, and submit to a baptism of repentance. Many believed that he was the long-awaited messiah! His followers represented a significant force in the political arena of the day, and even King Herod took notice of him. The call to repentance is a powerful one, and even today people take note when they are confronted with the need to change. We hear that call echoing through the days of Advent, and many wonder if they too need to repent as life continues.

Thought for the Day: What am I being called to change?