Today’s Gospel has a hint of urgency in it.  We are reminded that we really need to reform our lives.  Tomorrow may be too late.  We need to act now.

John the Baptist is saying: “why wait for the prophet Elijah to return, or for the Messiah to come, or the Kingdom of God to be established.”   All of these things are already happening.  Now is the time to change our attitude and conduct.  Tomorrow may be too late. Act now!

More specifically, John might be saying to us: “If you are planning on making a Christmas Confession, do it soon and don’t delay.  If you are thinking about getting reconciled with someone, do it now and don’t put it off.  If your wondering about doing something nice for someone, do it now and don’t wait for tomorrow.  If you are considering fasting a little and praying more, do it now and don’t wait.

The theme of John the Baptist’s message today is “why wait to reform your lives?”  The Kingdom of God is at hand—right here, right now.  Seize it before the opportunity disappears, never to return.

So why should we wait until we feel like it before we call, write or invite a friend or relative we have not seen or talked to in a long time?  Why wait until the New Year before we start getting rid of some bad habits like excessive smoking or drinking, cursing or gossiping, or watching television too much?

Now is the time to welcome Christ into our lives by doing good to other people.  NOW is the time—not tomorrow— to become more Christ—like by making ourselves more loving and caring people.

God Bless,

Msgr. Powell