Reflections

Friday, June 24, 2016

The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.
(Luke 1:80)

After the drama of his birth, John’s life was obscure. “He was in the desert.” Like you, the Christ whom he proclaimed, he spent much more time in preparation than in ministry.

This child, who had leapt for joy at the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, knew you before either of you were born. From womb to womb the connection sparked. Six months apart, you grew up separately but must have known each other well as children. You did not manifest yourself publicly until John baptized you. For a while, you were preaching at the same time, but John had always known that he was just “a voice crying out in the wilderness.”

In this wilderness, this desert where we prepare for whatever you ask of us, in this silence, Lord, let us grow “strong in spirit.” Let us rejoice in you, announce you, and seek only your will.

I pray now for whatever this day will bring, for whomever I meet, and for the privilege of serving you in my neighbor.

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