I have always been fascinated by John the Baptist’s appearance, demeanor, and character. He embodied passion, austerity, discipline, boldness, and certitude—qualities from which all of us can learn. Unyielding and direct, he boldly confronted the hypocrisy of the spiritual leaders of his time. He was absolutely certain of his role and mission. In other words, he understood his place in God’s reign: he was not the Messiah; someone greater was coming after him, and he felt unworthy to untie His sandals.
John, then, is the Advent figure we must emulate, for this solemn season calls us to a life characterized by discipline, courage, resoluteness, passion, and determination. As a penitential period, Advent invites us to conversion and sobriety. We must be willing to dedicate time to live out our commitment to prayer, service, generosity, and simplicity.
Advent is a time for us to remain true to our baptismal call to be prophets like John the Baptist. In an era where truth is often distorted and power is corrupted, we must have the courage to speak out against the evils that undermine the moral fabric of our society and the Gospel values that uphold and respect the dignity of every human person.
The candle we light on the Advent wreath for this Second Sunday of Advent represents peace. However, as we have learned, we cannot attain peace without justice. Advent calls us to advocate for justice without fear. We cannot experience peace while confronting inequality, racism, corruption, poverty, war, and famine in our society. Genuine conversion and penance are urgently needed among leaders of various institutions. We require leaders who are selfless in their service, shun dishonest wealth, and implement policies that protect the welfare and well-being of all citizens.
John the Baptist exemplified a life of intense prayer and fasting. In the same way, we must fervently pray for the needs of the world and the Church, seeking the conversion of hearts among leaders to foster peace, justice, and hope in our lands. We must commit to praying together for these intentions in a world that remains volatile, primarily due to the reluctance of some leaders to lay down arms, reconcile nations, and promote security, restoration, and progress for all countries.
Let us follow the example of John the Baptist this Advent season. May we be disciplined in our prayer, mindful in all our actions, courageous and honest in our speech, and, above all, authentic in our actions and leadership. Let us ardently pray that peace, justice, and order may flourish in our world.
Blessings,
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California