Lectionary: 5
Read the Gospel: Mark 1:1-8
Gospel Summary
Today’s Gospel passage is from the beginning of the Gospel according to Mark. The coming of John the Baptist is foretold in the verses quoted from the book of the prophet Isaiah: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way. John the Baptist did indeed prepare the way of the Lord.
Reflection for Parents
John the Baptist was clothed in camel’s hair, wore a leather belt around his waist, and fed on locusts and wild honey. He stood out as being different, even strange, in comparison to the people around him. Yet people were drawn to him and to what he said. They heard his call to repentance and were baptized in the Jordan River. Today, think about and pray for coworkers, classmates, family members, friends, and neighbors who stand out as being different. What can you learn from them?
Bringing the Gospel Into Your Family
Light two purple candles on your family’s Advent wreath. Ask family members to share how they have prepared the way of the Lord in the past week. Did they take time to pray? Did they do a kind deed for another family member or neighbor? Decide as a family on one or more ways you will follow the example of John the Baptist and prepare the way of the Lord in the week to come.
Discussion Starters
- I saw someone else prepare the way of the Lord this week when . . .
- Someone who reminds me of Saint John the Baptist is . . . because . . .
- If I could proclaim one message to the world today it would be . . .
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