Leaving Thanksgiving and gearing for Christmas, Christians speak about Advent. A fairly unknown religious custom unless you are a regular Sunday worshipper! Advent speaks about preparation. The enigmatic character of John the Baptist is often mentioned, portrayed stunningly here by the artist, 'El Greco'! The character of John is powerful. He marches in our lives bearing absolutely no sign on himself. His whole life seems to be pointed towards his cousin, Jesus. What is fascinating about him? The Baptist belongs to no mainline religion, politics or commerce and boldly announces "a new era of peace and prosperity!" I always look forward to hearing his message reminding me of my Mandarin father's New Year message of "Hanei!" Hanei is Chinese for prosperity, both material and spiritual. Years later I discovered this was the original meaning of the English word, 'prosperity!' Hanei derives its name from an ancient Emperor who exemplied the meaning of prosperity. Is it possible to think of spiritual prosperity while we celebrate Christmas? How does an archaic figure crash into our ordered systems and confront our military, political, commercial and church establishments? Apparently his scary word is 'Repent! Prepare ye the way of the Lord!' In the 'Occupy Wall Street' groups around the country, can he be considered their (our) saint? The 'Repent' message is still relevant in our commercialized Christmas season. Are we spiritual seekers, builders of relationships or mere consumers of community living? You and I need renewal. Repentance is not an 'occupy' property of Christians alone. We all desire Hanei. "Hi, John, we want to listen!"
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