One who baptizes with the Holy Spirit and with fire -
John proclaimed the good news to the crowds - a brood of vipers. May we hear John’s message to not flee from the wrath to come, but rather, bear fruits worthy of repentance.
We, the crowds, ask…
What then should we do?
Share your coats with those who have none and do likewise with food.
What then should we do?
Collect no more than what is prescribed for you.
What then should we do?
Do not extort money.
John’s answers fill us with expectation for the Messiah - the One more powerful than John, the One who is coming to us, baptizing us, winnowing us, gathering us, burning away the chaff within us.
No longer just part of the crowds - we become the people.
May it be so. Amen.
(The Third Sunday of Advent is 12/12.)