This is Cardinal Francis George, and I invite you to join me for the next few minutes to

reflect with Father Robert Barron on the Word of God, which is the Word on Fire.

Father Barron will challenge us to open our hearts to the Word on Fire, which is God's

Word of Love for each of us.

If our hearts are open, the Lord can change and transform us, so that we might speak with

love about the one who is love.

The Archdiocese of Chicago through the generosity of Sacred Heart Parish in Winnetka now presents

the Word on Fire.

Peace be with you.

First today, the second Sunday of Advent, we confront John the Baptist, this fiery and

strange and surprising figure, who along with Isaiah the Prophet and married the Mother

of God is the great figure of the Advent season.

You know, I find so interesting that in all four gospels, the Baptist is prominently featured.

It's as though Matthew, Mark, Luke and John knew that we can't fully understand Jesus

without first coming to grips with John.

He prepares the way of the Lord in the historical sense, but also for us now.

It's as though we can't confront Jesus without first listening to John's words and message.

How's he described?

Here's Matthew.

John the Baptist appeared preaching in the desert of Judea, the desert.

He is the man of the desert that's his place.

How often in the biblical tradition, the desert is featured.

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