Into the Inner Desert: Rediscovering Our Relationship with God During Advent

Today’s Gospel reading centers on John the Baptist’s call to repent and be fruitful.

John preaches in the desert . . . a place free of distractions . . . where people must face the fundamental question: What is my relationship with God? Advent invites all Christians into this same interior desert, prompting honest self-examination and the courage to change.

True repentance requires more than words or ritual; it demands inward transformation and the willingness to leave comfort zones. John challenges the Pharisees and Sadducees by insisting that repentance must bear fruit . . . justice, peace, patience, forgiveness, and compassion. Merely acknowledging sins is not enough; one must produce spiritual fruit that reflects a renewed relationship with God.

The Homily also encourages believers during Advent to make a sincere confession, focus on personal conversion rather than others’ faults, and open their hearts to God so they may live more lovingly and be prepared for Christ who is already in their midst.

The Kingdom of God is at Hand …

What does that really mean?

Listen to this Meditation Media.

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Into the Inner Desert: Rediscovering Our Relationship with God During Advent

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Art Work

Christ (Fasting) in the Dessert: Russian Painter: Ivan Kramskoi: 1872

The painting is sometimes called, Christ in the Wilderness.

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Gospel Reading: Matthew 3: 1-12

First Reading: Isaiah 11: 1-10

Second Reading: Romans 15: 4-9