As the birth of Jesus draws closer, the scripture readings over the next few days, invites us to journey with Mary and with John the Baptist.

John is an amazing person. He’s the first person we hear of who recognises Christ. We’re told he leapt in his mother’s womb when the pregnant Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth.

John is a true disciple. He carries out his mission to proclaim the Messiah, inviting people to come and receive a baptism of forgiveness. He never seeks acclamation for himself. Instead he assures people that someone greater is coming, someone who will Baptist them with the Holy Spirit.

John is faithful in carrying out his ministry, continually encouraging people to to live lives of forgiveness and love. He constantly seeks the Messiah, the One who is to come.

As we continue our journey towards Christmas let’s take the message of God’s forgiveness that John preached, by seeking the graces the beautiful Sacrament of Reconciliation offers us. There, where Lord of Love waits to lavishly pour out blessings on us, we will find the Messiah.

Let us pray for each other as we journey to Christmas.