Mark 1:1-8

⁴ And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. ⁵ The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. ⁶ John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. ⁷ And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. ⁸ I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus Christ. John’s message is one of repentance and the forgiveness of sins. As we prepare ourselves this Advent season, may we all take a moment to empty ourselves of our sins, knowing that we are forgiven this day, and every day. And let us remember our baptism as we await the birth of our savoir, knowing that not only have we been baptized with water as John proclaimed, but also with the Holy Spirit. Thanks be to God!

 

Devotion by Steve Marks