# The Price of Commitment on the Second Sunday of Advent
*2014-12-05*

> Bill reflects on the second Sunday of Advent, focusing on John the Baptist’s call to prepare the way for Christ and the courage required to stay true to the Gospel in a world of false values.

## John the Baptist’s Mission

The second Sunday of Advent reminds us that John the Baptist was chosen by God to prepare the way for Jesus, whom he proclaimed to the people of Israel as the Messiah, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). John consecrated himself entirely to God and to Christ, living a life of radical commitment.

## The Cost of Truth

John’s boldness cost him his life. When he denounced the immorality of King Herod, he paid the ultimate price for speaking the truth. His witness asks us: how many are willing to suffer for the truth? True disciples are those who are not afraid to go against the current and refuse to silence the voice of conscience.

## Resisting Rotten Values

In our own time, we encounter “rotten values” that threaten to rob us of hope. Like spoiled food, these false ideals can poison our souls. We are called to resist them, to go against the tide, and to stand firm in the Gospel, even when it is uncomfortable or costly.

## Courage for the Journey

The Advent journey invites us to be brave, to move forward against the current, and to be proud of our commitment to Christ. By following John’s example, we prepare the way for the Lord in our own lives and in the world.

*True commitment to Christ requires the courage to stand for truth, even when it means swimming against the prevailing current.*