Many have seen today's first reading as a foreshadowing of John the Baptist. John prepared for the coming of Jesus by preaching "a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." (Mark 1:1-8)
Repentance may be associated with Lent, but the word means to "rethink." It's the literal meaning of the Greek word used in the Gospel, "metanoia."
To repent means to think some long thoughts, take a good look at the whole picture, and get a perspective - a perspective you might lose in the hustle of day-to-day life. Everything. We human beings are changed most of all.
When Jesus became part of the human race, he became a brother to us. Sometimes it's hard to remember that. But what you have to do is realize who you are - a son or daughter of God, a brother or sister of Jesus - and then live up to who you are.
It's Advent and you're preparing for Christmas. Is there some rethinking that you need to do to get ready for Christmas this year?
- Little Blue Book, Diocese of Saginaw