​Proclamation. Scripture, reflection and prayer.

Matthew 3:1-6 "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:
“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River"
Reflection. What a different world we live in compared to the world of John the Baptizer.
"Repent, for the Kingdom of God has come near."
Can you imagine the response that most would give if we proclaimed such a message. It is not even a fire and brimstone message. Rather, it is a call to turn back to God. It is a call to acknowledge that we don't know best. It is a reminder that God and His Kingdom is already around us.
"Repent, for the Kingdom of God has come near."
How many of us think it is a messge that we and the whole world would do well to heed. God loves us. God comes to us in His Son, Jesus. God wants the very, very best for us. Always. Perhaps our response could begin with...
"Repent, for the Kingdom of God has come near."
Prayer. Lord God Almighty, I want to be right with you. I repent and turn back to you. In Jesus's name. Amen.