Third Sunday of Advent, 16 December

Luke 3:10–18

The crowds asked John the Baptist, “What then should
we do?” In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone
who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” Even tax collectors came
to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” He said to
them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” Soldiers also asked
him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from
anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.” As
the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their
hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of
them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I
is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize
you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear
his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he
will burn with unquenchable fire.” So, with many other exhortations, he
proclaimed the good news to the people.

Reflection

·        
How do I draw people’s respect
and trust?

·        
What does my lifestyle say
about my faith in Christ?