LoveThe Second Sunday of Advent

Sunday, December 4, 2011Las Vegas Church of the Nazarene

Reaching People with the Transforming Grace of Jesus Christ

Candle Lighting: Love

The second candle is the candle of love. The sending of God’s one and only Son, Jesus, demonstrates God’s magnificent love for all of us. In our preparation to celebrate the advent of Christ, we, too, are called to embrace and share this love with others.

Gospel Reading: Mark 1:1-8

1 The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet:

“I will send my messenger ahead of you,

who will prepare your way”—

3 “a voice of one calling in the desert,

‘Prepare the way for the Lord,

make straight paths for him.’”

4 And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and 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 will come one more powerful than I, the thongs 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.”

Prayer

Lord, help us to accept and embrace the call to confession and repentance in our own life. And in doing so, may our hearts be ready to welcome you this Advent season. Amen.

Reflection

John the Baptist was preparing the people to meet Jesus by calling them to repentance. Why is repentance and confession so essential in the Christian life?

God used John to help prepare the people to meet Jesus. Who has God used in your life to help point and direct you to Jesus?

When people heard about John, many became curious and went out to see him. What was so different about John that caused such a stir?

True repentance involves not only a turning away from sin, but also a turning toward God. Write a prayer below asking God to help you in this venture.