In Sunday’s Gospel (Mark 1:14-20) we are told that John the Baptist, a holy man, a prophet called to prepare the way for the Lord, is in prison. Imagine the sense of darkness and despair those who longed for righteousness felt. If I’d been a follower of John, I’d have been tempted to lie low, escape danger, maybe even give up on his promises.
But Jesus says, “The time has come, the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15). That’s a radically new perspective on interpreting the times; dark and oppressive days are ripe for Good News!
That’s the kind of repentance Jesus calls us to. A radical conversion from despair to hope, cynicism to faith. There is good news! The Kingdom is near, grace is offered for all who desire to follow this way of radical repentance.
Deep down we know God’s promises of liberation, justice, joy and peace are our great dream. It usually takes artists and poets to awaken this yearning. We witnessed this when young poet, Amanda Gordon, recited her poem (The Hill We Climb) at the inauguration of a new president in America. I loved this bit:
Scripture tells us to envision
that everyone shall sit under their own vine and fig tree
And no one shall make them afraid
If we’re to live up to our own time
Then victory won’t lie in the blade
But in all the bridges we’ve made
That is the promise to glade
The hill we climb
If only we dare
So, let’s dare. Let’s follow Jesus in the way of repentance, hope and joy.
God Bless,
Sean.