NOTES for Лк 3:1-38
The word “repentance” has become familiar to us. We repent because we are supposed to. We repent of many sins, but does our life change as a result? If we do not bear fruits of repentance, we may confidently apply to ourselves the Baptist’s words about the “brood of vipers” and the “axe laid to the root of the trees.” At the same time, it is clear what fruits tax collectors and soldiers must bear. But what if we belong to neither group? What are we to do? Understanding this requires serious work upon ourselves, attentiveness to our life, and determination to live differently. Then there opens before us the possibility of baptism with the Spirit and fire, of following the Beloved Son, and the hope of hearing the cherished words: “With you I am well pleased!”