I am here, at the first Advent, watching John baptizing in the river Jordan, preparing us for the one who is to come, the one greater than all of us. We are dazzled by this bearded man in his measly clothing and in awe of John's majestic faith.  He listens to our sins, yet does not chastise as he gently anoints us with water.  We cling to his every word and the spirit that has brought us to this sacred place. Close your eyes, come with me and feel the water cool your head, hear the praises sung to the Lord God, feel the warmth of the sun, as our hearts swell with God's love. How electrifying it is to prepare thee the way of the Lord!