SATURDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT
Matthew 17:9a, 10–13
Reflect
John the Baptist was thought by many to be another Elijah. There are many similarities between the two figures. John dressed in camel’s hair and leather, like Elijah did (see 2 Kgs 1:8) and ate a diet of locusts and wild honey, which was similar to what Elijah ate. John the Baptist also had a powerful prophetic ministry and called people to repentance, again similar to Elijah’s prophetic ministry. Both John the Baptist and Elijah spent time living in the wilderness, in solitude and prayer. Both were vocal critics of the immoral ruling authorities of their time and both were persecuted for their beliefs, John the Baptist having died by the hand of King Herod.
Pray
Father, St. John the Baptist was raised up by you to prepare the way for Jesus Christ, your Son, our Savior. We ask for his intercession to help us truly repent and receive your grace and salvation.
Live
In imitation of John the Baptist and Elijah, offer a small fast to God today. Perhaps skip a meal, pass on dessert, or go without snacking.
