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“In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’”Matthew 3:1


“Stop! Pay attention to what’s happening around you,” cried my mother as 16-year-old me pulled out in front of approaching traffic on our way home from town. I tried to down-play my inattention, but Mom firmly reminded me I had put our lives in danger. “Repent” is an abrupt, interrupting word. On John the Baptist’s lips it is a call to stop! living in ways that are inattentive to God’s presence and purpose. The kingdom of heaven has come near with the coming of Jesus. Outside of his grace, there is no life.


What needs to stop! in your life today so that your heart may become open to the One who comes to baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire?

Lord, interrupt me. Open my eyes and let me see you moving in this world. Lead me to repent that your kingdom may come also to me. Amen.