Reflecting on Mark's Gospel - Mark 1:2-4

In Mark 1:2-4 we get notice of the ministry of John the Baptizer. John is a man with a message. We are told that his proclamation is about repentance and forgiveness. However, even before that, and presumably to stress the importance of the role, we are informed that this was foretold by the prophets. The text claims that the quotation comes from Isaiah. Actually, it is a mix of two quotations, the first part coming from the prophet Malachi (3:1), with the second part certainly from Isaiah (40:3).

However, the critical point is that this is important, though actually of limited importance. Something bigger is going to happen. Someone more important is following. Mark is preparing to introduce us to Jesus, just as John’s role is to prepare the way.

The preparatory role of John the Baptist is so important to Mark that he uses it as the launchpad of his Gospel. There is no hint of a nativity in Mark. It is John’s message that prepares the way.

The good news, as stated in verse 1, belongs to Jesus; but the first voice to be heard is that of John. These early words also surely identify forgiveness as the hallmark of the Gospel. Forgiveness, preceded by repentance, without which it does not really work is what sorts things out. The kinks in the road are sorted as the Lord’s way is made straight.

This is the good news that will bring salvation, to use the Biblical word, to the world. As Eduard Schweizer (The Good News according to Mark) says – “God’s special salvation-tine has begun; therefore, this preaching resounds through the world.” Through the preaching those who are listening are encouraged to change direction. John urges the people to turn around, thus firmly placing himself in the prophetic line as it was often the task of the prophet to offer words that reminded the people of what they were doing wrong, and the point is that a complete change is needed. Responding to that transformative opportunity will pave the way for something – someone – very special. And the people flood to the wilderness, despite the walk, to hear what John has to say. (How many preachers are worth such an effort and going out of our way?)