You have probably heard the old joke: How many psychologists does it take to change a light bulb? Just one — but the light bulb has to want to change. Change, conversion, repentance was the theme of the preaching of John the Baptist. John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” Those who knew they needed to change — the tax collectors and sinners as the Bible puts it — responded favorably to his preaching. Those who thought they had their act together — the Sadducees and Pharisees — we not responsive to the call to conversion. During Advent the message of John the Baptist still resonates. What changes do I need to make in my life to reflect better my identity as a child of God? Where am I being called to be more forgiving, more generous, more compassionate, more loving?
