Environmental Stewardship Commission

Readings

Reflection on Second Sunday of Advent: Repent and Prepare for the Promise by the Rev. Margaret W. Thomas

“Prepare the Way of the Lord”. John’s (perhaps Jesus’ cousin) ministry beckons people out to the shores of the Jordan in flocks. He preaches a baptism of repentance. He offers a flowing forgiveness for sins. The odd, demanding prophet quotes Isaiah as his foundation. Luke’s gospel places John in the center of regional political power struggles. The Jewish historian, Josephus, also identifies John as the truth teller, who challenges king Herod’s rule. John jumps directly into the rocky, murky Jordan, to announce the future Lord. He stands on the ancient rocks and offers fresh cleansing waters to prepare for the promised one. He converts the cleaning ritual into a public bath, available for all, in full view of Herod’s corrupt system of governance.

The Jordan seems a mild meandering little stream, compared to the great rivers of the world. For America’s African slaves who escaped across the Ohio River to freedom, the size and power of the Jordan river was massive as a metaphor of promise. For all who remember their baptismal covenant, the promises may be recalled. promises of actual freedom.

Freedom may take many aspects. There may be literal freedom from harm, from slavery, or slave wages, addictions, harmful relationships, freedom from the anxiety of fear, disease, or bondage in prison or to systems, all of which are offered release, or easing within the promises of John’s call.

Much in music and drama picks up the themes of these words. The film, Oh Brother Where Art Thou? and the older play/film, Godspell are examples. Many African American Spirituals offer alternatives to the familiar hymnal selections; People Look East, 724 and Wade in the Water, 740 in Wonder Love and Praise, are a couple.

The German mystic Hildegard of Bingen recalls the need for baptismal moistness in her instructions to remain green and growing in the spirit.

The time is right to examine and decide to cast out, off, wash away, or commit expectantly to some newness. Does John know that Jesus awaits his baptism too? We do not know; but we do know that he did arrive in the river, for just that same ritual. Changed himself, Jesus could enter new ministry. Where is our new ministry calling us?