John the Baptist, one of the most important figures in history, may have been part of the ancient Essene community that shared so many basic understandings of Israel's dilemma with him. John knew the answer - the Messiah. Advent begins with the preaching of John and Christmas ends with John baptizing Jesus of Nazareth, his cousin. Consider Dr. John Bergsma's book, "Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls" as we wonder about the background of John and the problems of God's wounded people. The readings for the Second Sunday of Advent: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120422.cfm For more about "Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls" by Dr. John Bergsma, go here: https://tinyurl.com/wb9rjubu Music by Michael Kollner and Russ Ronnebaum pursuant to One License Annual License w/Podcasting, A-726294.