Mark's Missing Advent

painting by Karen Soleau

"And it came to pass, in those days,
That Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee,
And was baptized by John in the Jordan."
So we meet Jesus in the Gospel of Mark.
There is no babe, no wise men, no shepherds,
Not even Mary and Joseph.
Mark cares not for the birth
We will celebrate on December 25.
Mark begins at the start
Of Jesus ministry.
A man grown,
Jesus announces himself
By submission to another
To be baptized.
And God speaks:
"Thou art my beloved Son,
In whom I am well pleased."
Jesus knew he was God's word,
Now he receives God's love.
At Advent and Christmas
May we all know
The embrace of the Holy Spirit,
God's love.