Mark 1:1-8, Common English Bible

Beginnings and boundaries are necessary for a fulfilling life.  Mark’s gospel is sharing “alternative news” to what is being presented in the culture before Jesus walks on the scene.   Now Jesus is the beginning of good news.  Reaching back to God’s promises, Mark reintroduces his audience to words from the Prophets, Malachi and Isaiah.

God’s response to humanity’s sin has finally arrived.  It’s a four-letter word- Love, the embodiment of Jesus Christ!  John the Baptist represents the role we are all to participate in.

God’s announcement of love is not articulated, but demonstrated in Jesus!  Love comes from the margins of life.  John is coming from the margins and has a message for his followers then and for us now.

Love calls us to a role of preparation!
“a voice shouting in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way for the Lord; make his paths straight.’” Mark 1:3

Love cries out in the wilderness!
John the Baptist was in the wilderness calling for people to be baptized to show that they were changing their hearts and lives and wanted God to forgive their sins.   Mark 1:4

Love is a response to a changed heart!
Everyone in Judea and all the people of Jerusalem went out to the Jordan River and were being baptized by John as they confessed their sins.   Mark 1:5

Hear the W.O.W., the Words of Wisdom,
“Love points to Jesus!”