Read about John the Baptist <\/p>\n\n\n\n
John preached boldly in the wilderness and lived a lifestyle outside of the norm for that time. Think back to a time when you needed to act boldly in your life of faith.
What did you do and how was it received?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Children of Castrovirreyna, Peru<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A christian ministry coordinates with educational institutions and health facilities to promote social and behavioral change that advances good nutrition and hygiene habits. Home visits raise awareness about anemia and parasites, teach children about the importance of hand washing and improve household hygiene practices. For children, anemia blocks correct brain development, limiting their learning and opportunities in the future.Their generosity means the children of Castrovirreyna will grow up strong and healthy, thriving in their homes and leading their communities in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Watch a Video of the ministry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n DISCUSS<\/p>\n\n\n\n Christmas Quiz<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Read about John the Baptist John preached boldly in the wilderness and lived a lifestyle outside of the norm for that time. Think back to a time when you needed to act boldly in your life of faith.What did you … Continue reading \n
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In today\u2019s gospel, John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and proclaims, \u201cRepent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.\u201d
His voice cries out in the wilderness, an unexpected place to hear God\u2019s word. John was considered a wild man \u2014 eating locusts and honey, living on the margins of society, called to live a different way. When we think of
repentance, we often think of feeling sorry for things we\u2019ve done wrong. And that\u2019s certainly part of repentance, but John is inviting us to think more deeply. Repenting is a chance to turn away from the values of this world which leave us dissatisfied \u2014status, wealth, power \u2014 and allows us to reframe our thinking in preparation for Jesus\u2019 birth.
In Advent, we are called to make room for Jesus to enter our lives. We hear John\u2019s message of repentance and confession in preparation of the coming Savior and are reminded that his is a message for us as well. We too are called to repent and confess our sins so that Christ\u2019s love can come into us and
transform our lives for the sake of the world. Jesus is coming not to condemn us for our sins, but rather to help us to see his face in our neighbor\u2019s. This Advent, we have an opportunity to think differently about how we help bring Jesus\u2019 promise of a better future to our communities, whether here in the U.S. or in places like Peru. Read together Matthew 3:1-12.<\/p>\nhttps:\/\/lwr.org\/downloads\/advent-2022-small-group-study-guide-week-2<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n