Mark 1:1-8
Good stories grab you with a snappy beginning, and great stories often cleverly begin in a way that prefigures their ending. What a way to begin a Gospel – a story of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Here in Mark’s Gospel there is no manger, no star, no gold or frankincense, no cute cuddly animals – no infant Christ at all. Instead, the Gospel of Mark begins with a raving lunatic in the desert.
A powerful one comes after me. Someone who will bring God’s Spirit upon us arrives soon. Repent, confess your sins, and be ready!
John the Baptist’s message rings out through the centuries for all people of faith. John reminds us of the places and the situations in our lives that need straightening, that need hope and that need repentance. Each of us must – in our own way – prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming. And just as John represents an unusual and unlikely candidate for divine mercy, our lives and our desert places wait to be touched and blessed by the power of God.
Perhaps that is the point of this Gospel’s beginning. Without a baby, shepherds, angels or stars we are left to contemplate the pure power that comes to our world in Jesus Christ. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit, says John. Power for living not available in any other way is now available for each of us.
Powerful God, You so often surprise me and catch me off guard. This year help me see in unlikely places your call to faithfulness. Help me to recognize the things I need to change and the situations I must leave alone. Be with me in all my desert places, and sharpen my vision to recognize my Savior. AMEN
