Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
The Scriptures - Luke 3:1-6
In the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar’s reign, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judaea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of the lands of Ituraea and Trachonitis, Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, during the pontificate of Annas and Caiaphas the word of God came to John son of Zechariah, in the wilderness. He went through the whole Jordan district proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the sayings of the prophet Isaiah: A voice cries in the wilderness: Prepare a way for the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley will be filled in, every mountain and hill be laid low, winding ways will be straightened and rough roads made smooth. And all mankind shall see the salvation of God
Summary
This passage introduces John the Baptist, whow as sent by God to prepare people for Jesus'arrival. John preached in the wilderness,urging people to repent (turn away from their sins) and be baptised as a sign of starting fresh. He fulfilled the words of the prophet Isaiah, saying his role was to prepare the way for the Lord by helping people change their hearts and lives so they could welcome Jesus.
Reflection
John the Baptist challenges us to prepare for Jesus by turning away from actions that separate us from God and choosing a path that brings us closer to Him. This means more than just saying sorry—it’s about truly changing our behaviour. Are there ways we can be more honest, forgiving, or patient? Can we show love to others, even when it’s hard? Turning away from selfishness, anger, or unkindness opens our hearts to God’s presence. John reminds us that every choice we make either draws us nearer to God or pulls us away. How can your actions this week help you take a step closer to God?