This is not a forced connection but demonstrates how the redemption presupposes the order and rhythm of creation. The transition to Advent is natural as the church now prepares for the coming of God's holy Child who, in his birth, tolls the death of the old world and the resurrection of the new one. Already in his birth he is the resurrection of all life. The appointed Gospel lessons support this theme of death and resurrection by showing this continuity between the Old Testament and the New in the appearance of John the Baptist, the last prophet of the old age. He closes the old age and inaugurates the new one by baptizing Jesus, the long awaited Messiah.
Fear is mixed with hope.
Baptism is placed along side of the Lord's Supper in anticipation of His coming. Preparation for the birth of Christ through repentance and forgiveness is also preparation for His second coming. The call for conversion continues the focus on judgment by showing the church the best way to prepare is to receive Christ as He comes to us through Word and Sacrament. The third Sunday in Advent has traditionally been the transitional Sunday that anticipates Christmas joy and narrows the focus upon the incarnation. The annunciation intensifies the incarnational focus.