The third week of Advent continues the journey with John the Baptist, focussing on his preaching and the call to justice that he proclaimed. It is ironic that this season has become one in which the inequalities and injustices of our world are so starkly revealed. But, this reality also gives us an opportunity to hear John’s call more strongly, and to see more clearly how we are to respond.
John’s message, which challenges us to live with justice and compassion, is the central focus of this week. The same basic message resonates through all of the passages. In Zephaniah, the song of restoration speaks of God’s restoration and forgiveness, but makes a point of embracing those who are vulnerable and marginalised specifically in the vision of God’s grace.
In Philippians, the believers are called to a life of rejoicing, prayer and thanksgiving because of God’s nearness, and the assurance is offered that this life brings unspeakable peace.
Finally, in the Gospel, John makes it clear that God’s coming is not just a joyous event in which we are accepted and forgiven with no cost on our part. Rather, God’s people are called to change their lives in accordance with God’s saving purpose, essentially becoming agents of God’s salvation to one another.
This is the message we need to hear this week. Yes, God is always coming to us, bringing salvation and life. But, this coming calls for a response from us in which we commit to lives that share grace and salvation, that empower and restore one another through acts of justice and compassion. If we really believe that God’s Reign has come in Christ, we cannot help but recognise the need for this to change and direct our lives.