“ … the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness” (Luke 3:2b).
What word are we speaking into Advent this year?
The word that John the Baptist speaks into Advent is nothing less than the word of God, a word that comes to John in the wilderness.
The gospel-writer Luke intentionally locates the word John is called to speak in the context of the political and religious structures of the day. “In 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, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son Zechariah” (3:1-2a). The word John is called to speak does not ignore the earthly realities whirling around him but rather is a word that speaks directly into them.
The specific word John speaks is a word from Scripture, the words of the prophet Isaiah from Isaiah 40. In stark contrast to the empty claims offered by the earthly and religious leaders of the day, the word John speaks is the word of salvation, not just for some, but for all — “and all flesh shall see the salvation of God” (Luke 3:6). While the promises offered by the earthly leaders benefitted only some, the salvation of God would be revealed to all. Not unlike today, this word was a radical word, a costly word, a word that would ultimately lead John to a platter and Jesus to a cross.
It can be tempting during the busyness of the Advent season to gloss lightly over the words of Advent. Avoid the temptation. The words of the lectionary readings, the words of the liturgy, and the words of the hymns all speak a word of stark contrast to the empty promises offered by both the secular celebrations of the season and so many of the political and societal structures in which we find ourselves. Read these words. Sing these words. Dwell in these words. And, for the love of God, preach these words, even when doing so is uncomfortable. They are words that lead us to Jesus, the only true Word, the Word that brings salvation not just for some, but for all.
His is no earthly kingdom;
it comes from heav’n above.
His rule is peace and freedom
and justice, truth, and love.
So let your praise be sounding
for kindness so abounding:
Hosanna to the Lord,
for he fulfills God’s word! (ELW #246)
Centered in Christ +
Bishop Busboom