I have to admit though, his rough appearance and sharp message have always put me off. He cries in the wilderness and shouts of winnowing forks and an all-consuming fire.
And for 50 years, I have tried to talk myself into liking him — or at the very minimum, at least appreciating his message, but I have failed. What I find when I do that is incredibly helpful for me.
Because even with a mute button, I find that there is a John who still baptizes; a John who draws people to the water and listens to them; a John who offers the hope of repentance.
And, like a true prophet, John always — yes, always — points the way to Jesus and the hope he brings into the world. Silencing John at this time of year helps me with my own spiritual journey. It was actually about action. And this morning, I want to share one of those stories, exactly as it was written. Pay attention to the actions. I bought someone a coffee. That didn't work for me. I put money in a fund-raising jar. Again, Nada, nothing registered. Tonight I am sitting in the waiting area at Penn Station listening to the man next to me talk to his wife in a panicked tone because his wallet was stolen.
No ticket home, no cash no cards. He called a couple more friends and left messages. I would have been in tears if it were me. I'd be hoping for a miracle in his shoes. But I gave him ticket money and said he could pay me if he ever saw me again, which I am sure won't happen. He felt better thinking it was a loan. He said it restored some of his faith in humanity.
