What must we do?

In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist is asked three times, ‘What must we do?’ John’s preaching has awakened the people’s conscience. He has shown them that they need to repent and change their lives, and so they come to him for guidance. John’s response is simple, practical and radical. Tax collectors and soldiers were despised as sinners, collaborators with the occupying Roman forces. John doesn’t dismiss their question, but simply tells them to be honest and not corrupt. More startlingly, anyone who has more than enough food or clothing is called to share what they have with the poor. John doesn’t tell his disciples to take on extra religious observances, or to withdraw from the society in which they live. Instead, he challenges the people to overcome injustice by acting justly.

Today is traditionally called Gaudete Sunday, when we can begin to rejoice at the Good News of our redemption. The Messiah is coming soon. We prepare the way for Christ by repentance; and our repentance is expressed in simple and practical ways – by acting justly.

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