Psalms: 54

Meditation

Matthew: John the Baptist made no attempt at popularity. Like any prophet worth his salt, John was no fashion-plate either, proclaiming “Repent” – the only thing missing from this caricature was the sandwich board reading: “The end is near.” He was fearless confronting king, Pharisee and priest alike warning even them that repentance is borne out by the fruit of their labor. Pharisees and Sadducees believed they were what we call “entitled” people even before God so that, for them, repentance was optional. It is not.

Gospel: Matthew 3:1-12

New Testament: Philippians 3:1-16

Old Testament: 1 Kings 18:20-40