3rd Sunday of Advent Reflection

Advent Reflections by Aaron Voth, ’05
Interim Director, CSB Campus Ministry

Luke 3:10-18 (NRSV)
10 And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” 11 In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13 He said to them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.”

15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,[a] 16 John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
18 So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.

Meditation
In today’s Gospel we again hear from John the Baptist, speaking of the Good News of the coming Messiah. Much like the people in this story, we too are filled with anticipation this holiday season as we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ arrival. How then should we prepare? John’s response is quite instructive for us today: if we are able, let us share what we have, let us care for the less privileged, let us be Christ to our neighbors. We have been blessed with so much and the Gospel compels us to share those blessings – and in doing so to share Christ’s love.

Reflection Questions
What is something you have more than enough of, something you could share with others?

If not a physical item, perhaps you have more than enough time, more than enough joy, more than enough love?

Prayer
Messiah God,
Fill our hearts with expectation for you, O Lord. May we recognize opportunities to share our blessings with others this Advent season. Help us to be more generous: with our time, with our talents, and with our gifts. Thank you for all you have given us.

May the fire of your Holy Spirit continue to burn, Amen.