By Leif Kehrwald

The gospel reading for the Second Sunday of Advent contained these words,

"See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way;
the voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
'Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.'" (Mark 1:2)

Of course the messenger is John the Baptist, cousin of Jesus, and greatest of all the prophets. During this Advent season, each of us must prepare our own hearts for Christ's coming. But quite frankly, that's not enough. We are also called to be a voice crying out in the wilderness, "Prepare the way!"

In his song Cry the Gospel, Tom Booth sings these words:

Say not that you are too young.
"We are holy we are strong."
With purity and love and faith,
"Proclaiming Christ today!"
Be holy. The Lord be glorified!
Be holy, cry the gospel with your life!

... with the Holy Spirit showing us the way
To be holy, and cry the gospel with you life!
Cry the gospel with your life!

Strong words—"cry the gospel." Perhaps you are thinking that you are not the type to proclaim such strong words right out loud. Perhaps you feel uncomfortable when someone tries to be "in your face" with the message of Jesus. That's fair and reasonable. But take note; listen carefully to the song. The words are, "cry the gospel with your life!" How does your life prepare the way of the Lord this Advent?

I am reminded of a sentiment attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi. He is known to have said something like this: "Pray always... and if need be, use words." It's the same thing. Let your life be a witness that Jesus is the Messiah.

For the remainder of Advent, I invite you to engage in this unique form of reflection. How are your daily activities a prayer? How do your interactions with others prepare the way of the Lord? How does your life cry the gospel?

By the way, did you know that Saint Francis is also given credit for inventing the Christmas Crèche? That's right, and as legend has it, the first manger scene was comprised of real animals and real people. Without words, the nativity scene cries the gospel and prepares us for the coming of the Christ child. May you have the same creativity and inspiration as Saint Francis.

And remember to pray.
O God, thank you for the courage of John the Baptist to be a voice crying out in the wilderness.
O God, thank you for Saint Francis, for he knew how to cry the gospel with his life.

Amen.

More Links:

• Who Was St. Francis?
• John the Baptist: Distinct Gospel Portraits
• Why is Advent Important?

Spirit Compass reflections are developed in partnership
with the Center for Ministry Development.