‘Twas the fifteenth year of the emperor’s reign, and all through the land it was a deeply political time, with rulers much named and power shifting hands. Yet in the wilderness stood a strange but faithful man named John. His peculiarity was not in his diet or dress, but in his message – one fueled by the very Word of God. While others sought to build platforms and prestige, John was leveling mountains and smoothing rough places, calling all to make a way for the Lord – a way by which every person might see and know salvation.
For many, the wilderness is a place of isolation, but for John it was illumination. There he saw that divine love calls for repentance, pours out forgiveness, and offers salvation as the gift of rebirth – a washing of renewal. Yet he warned that salvation cannot be inherited by family lineage or claimed by earthly privilege; it can only be known through Christ, who empowers us to bear good fruit and turn from selfish paths.
Today, as the Spirit’s voice again cries out from the wilderness, we are reminded of our prophetic calling: to make salvation visible through radical generosity, fearless honesty, and countercultural contentment. These are the works that prepare the way for others to meet the One who comes at Christmas to baptize us with the boundless Spirit of God.
Spirit of Christ, transform our hearts to bear the fruits of repentance and share the freedom of forgiveness. Empower us with courage, truth, and inner peace. Help us build paths of salvation for those cut off by selfishness, deception, and dissatisfaction. Through Christ our Lord, amen.
Rob Musick
Chaplain, University of Pikeville
Words for Waiting 