Readings and Reflections for the Second Sunday of Advent
Malachi 3:1-4
Philippians 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6
Dear Friends,
The prophet Malachi declares the coming of a messenger to prepare the way for God’s judgment. The impact will be like fire and soap to cleanse and restore the priesthood of Israel to serve God rightly.
Luke’s Gospel describes the ministry of John the Baptist, who prepares the people for the coming of God through a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. “All flesh shall see the salvation of God.”
Speaking to the Philippian Church, Paul expresses his confidence that the work God has begun in them will be made complete when Christ comes again.
Comment: This Sunday in Advent always emphasizes the theme of repentance and preparation for the coming of Christ. There is so much in our world, not to mention in my own heart, that needs the refining and cleansing fire of God’s Spirit! And we can present ourselves before Christ in complete confidence of the love he demonstrated on the cross. Everything he does with us, in us, for us, and through us, is for good. Rather than avoid this loving judgment, we claim it and seek it, so that “all flesh may see the salvation of God.”