3rd Sunday of Advent
Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6
On this third Sunday of Advent, it is hard to imagine John the Baptist being gentle when he calls some of those who came to him seeking the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins “brood of vipers.” Nonetheless, some transformation for the better happens when he is asked, “What, then, should we do?” John seems to hinder his sharp tongue and instead provides simple yet powerful instructions to live such a baptism.
The prophet Zephaniah speaks on God’s behalf and delivers the blessed and assured promise. The Lord has indeed removed the judgment from those gifted with new hearts and minds. The lame will be saved, the outcast will be gathered, and the oppressor driven away (3:19). The King, our Lord, is in our midst (15,17). We will be renewed in his love (17) and brought back home (20).
For Paul, gentleness is the sign of the transformed believer rejoicing in the fulfilled promise. The Lord is near (Philippians 4:4-5). We will find home in the peace that surpasses human reason and comes only from the heart of our savior (7).
Isaiah sings:
“Surely God is my salvation;
I will trust and will not be afraid,
for the Lord is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation.”
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
And you will say on that day:
‘Give thanks to the Lord;
call on his name;
make known his deeds among the nations;
proclaim that his name is exalted (Isaiah 12:2-4; NRSVue).’ ”
Bridging Faith 