Repent and bear fruit (Matthew 3:1-12)

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For more commentary on this week's readings, see the Reflections on the Lectionary page, which includes Chinn's current Living by the Word column as well as past magazine and online-only content. For full-text access to all articles, subscribe to the Century.

John the Baptist is alive and well in San Francisco. He appears at the corner of Powell and Market Streets, where long lines of tourists wait to catch a cable car ride over scenic Nob Hill and Russian Hill on the way to Fisherman’s Wharf. He enjoys a captive audience. Some days, you can choose from among several candidates. Whether toting a sign or a Bible, their message is the same. Repent! Or else!