The Gospel text has a quotation from the prophet Isaiah that is filled with words of comfort for God’s people during their time of exile in Babylon. It also reminds us of the need for conversion. In its original context, this section speaks of the voice in the desert calling the people to prepare the way for God to return to Jerusalem, to begin His reign revealing His glory to all humanity. John the Baptist now echoes the prophet Isaiah by announcing the coming of God and His kingdom. He calls us  to turn around or return, changing our thinking and conduct in a decisive and fundamental manner. Moreover, John calls us to a radical reorientation of our lives and ourselves to God by purifying ourselves in the images of Spirit and fire. We are called then to heed the call of John the Baptist to reorient ourselves to God by stripping away everything that does not lead to Him. Only by becoming simple and humble before Him can we truly and radically reorient our lives.