John the Baptist is a striking figure of Advent because he feels so close to our own experience of faith. Just last week, we heard him proclaim with confidence, “One more powerful than I is coming.” Soon after, he stands at the Jordan, recognizing Jesus for who He truly is: “I need to be baptized by you.” He hears the Father’s voice from heaven: “This is my beloved Son.”
And yet today, we find John in prison—isolated, discouraged, and struggling. The same prophet who once spoke with clarity now asks, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” What happened? Life happened. Suffering happened. Waiting happened.
We know this place well. There are moments of joy and certainty in our faith—and moments when we quietly ask, “Where is God?”
Today’s Scriptures meet us there. Isaiah reassures us: “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God.” And James reminds us to be patient, to make our hearts firm, trusting that God is at work—even in the waiting.
Living in Love with God 
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