Gospel lesson of the week
The Second Sunday in Advent
Luke 3:1-6
John the Baptist is a herald of the saving Lord, whose way is prepared by “repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” As we hear the careful record of human leaders, we sense the spectrum of political and religious authority that will be challenged by this coming Lord.
1In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, 2during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; 6and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’ ”
Gospel Reflection Questions
- What do you remember (or have been told) about your baptism?
- Who are the “voices crying out in the wilderness” today?
- How is God preparing you to receive Jesus new this Christmas?
Prayer
Stir up our hearts, Lord God, to prepare the way of your only Son. By his coming give to all the people of the world knowledge of your salvation; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Mt. Olive's online Bible Study is a weekly opportunity to reflect on
the coming weekend's Gospel text before worship. We encourage you
to read the text, reflect on the questions with others.
< SUBSCRIBE >
Get our weekly Bible study newsletter emailed to you!
