(Source from The Word Among Us)

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God. (Mark 1:1)

Beginnings are important, and the beginning of Mark’s Gospel is no exception. His very first sentence reads like a summary of the entire book: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). So where does Mark start the story? He takes us to the Judean desert, where John the Baptist is preparing the way for the Christ, the Messiah.

Contrary to expectations that the Messiah would bring Israel military liberation, John proclaims that Jesus will baptize his people in the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:8). He will open the way for God himself to dwell in them!

That’s why John offered baptism for the forgiveness of sins. He knew that Jesus had come to do something new, something astonishing. Repentance was the key that would help the Jews—and us—to receive this surprising good news.

In order to be ready, we need to empty ourselves of our old ways of thinking. That’s where repentance comes in. It clears out the sin that clouds our vision of God. It removes our shame and guilt and delivers us from whatever blocks God’s life from taking root in us. It makes us ready to receive God’s forgiveness and helps us to become more aware of his abiding presence within us.

Are there ways that you need a change of attitude or a new hope this Advent? As you prepare the way for Jesus during this holy season, go back to “the beginning” and listen to John the Baptist’s message. Repentance is good news because it opens your heart to Jesus. So take advantage of opportunities to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation this season. Let God expand your capacity to receive him at Christmas. As Mark shows us in his Gospel, that’s where it all begins.

“Jesus, help me to open my heart to you as I await your coming!”