Gospel for December 7 2025 – Matthew 3:1-12
Gospel Reflections for December 7 2025
Why seek John the Baptist in a desert?
Thousands of people walk for miles far into an arid desert west of Jerusalem to see John the Baptist, not to hear him speak, but to admit their faults, failings, and sinfulness!
Who would do that! They walk that great distance precisely to be washed clean in the waters of the Jordan River.
Why come to John the Baptist? Perhaps they sensed something different about John that made it easier for them to admit their guilt. I think they sensed that he brought the love, mercy, and forgiveness of God …and that made all the difference.
The only reason why you would have the courage to admit your failings before anyone is that you feel this person would still love you despite your problems. You might even accept strong criticism as long as you would still feel their love.
God inspired John to present this powerful and liberating love of God …and so thousands of people came happily to receive it. The Church wants you to have that same sense of God’s love for yourself as well. It is a love that accepts …and also kindly corrects what you do wrong.
This is the story of Advent. It is a time for personal reflection on those areas in your life where you might need to make changes. Better to make needed changes yourself …rather than wait to be corrected by friends or family!
Before you begin your self-examination, remember the love that God has for you. Remember above all that He is on your side and wants you to be happy.
God knows that some of your behaviors might make things worse for you. If you see these bad habits now for what they are and acknowledge and regret them, then God will let them go. He will do that for the purpose of sending you off on a new and better path …finally free of those old habits. The way of Christ is the only way to true and lasting happiness.
People who follow this Advent plan find peace and a sense of freedom from old habits that were so self-destructive.
No wonder thousands of people travelled many miles into a harsh desert to begin their lives over again. Advent is that time for you as well.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
I wondered that same thing when my Wife and I traveled there with our Church group in 1984 . However We were in a Bus air conditioned and seated comfortably going for the same reason. I get the same feeling now hearing the beautiful readings at daily Mass and seeing the purple candle lit on the Advent Wreath.
We are in preparation for that baby born over 2000 years ago that changed the World..
Let us feel that way again every time we celebrate Advent renewing our Faith and Trust in a Loving ,Caring God.
Beautifully said!
thanks Fr. Dave ….as always for your wisdom and guidance!! See you at Legatus!!.. Laus Deo, Patty B.
See you at the January meeting!
Loveeeeeeeeeeeee your precious words Father Dave, ” The way o f Christ is the only way to true and everlasting happiness! Love your precious Jesus and love precious you(
Loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee, Franca and Dick
Thank you!