“The voice of one crying out in the desert: ‘Prepare the way of Yahweh! Make straight the paths of our God, in a solitary place.'”
(Isaiah 40:3)
Isaiah’s prophecy captures the call to readiness for the coming of the Lord. This verse found fulfilment in John the Baptiser, the voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the people for the arrival of the Messiah. John’s mission was not merely to announce the Messiah but to call hearts to repentance, making them ready to receive the Saviour.
The wilderness imagery refers to the barrenness of the human heart apart from the Creator. Advent is a time to heed this call and allow the Holy Spirit to smooth out the rough places in our lives. Through repentance, prayer, and reflection, we create a highway for Christ to enter and reign in our hearts. This preparation is not just for ourselves. As we prepare our own hearts, we are also called to help others encounter our Lord. By living as witnesses to His love and mercy, we can point others to the One who came to bring life and salvation.
Consider areas in your life that may be rough places needing God’s touch. Commit to a moment of repentance and ask for His grace to smooth them out. Reach out to someone who may need encouragement to turn to the Lord and invite them to join you in prayer or worship.
O Lord, You sent John the Baptiser to prepare the way for Your Son. Help us to prepare the way in our hearts through repentance and renewal. May we also be voices that call others to You, pointing to the hope and joy found in Christ. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
