Preparing the Way

From John 1:

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”)

19 Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. 20 He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Messiah.”

21 They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”  He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”

22 Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”

24 Now the Pharisees who had been sent 25 questioned him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?”

26 “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. 27 He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”

John the Baptist’s role in the preparation for Jesus was monumental. Because of his role his life was not an easy one. He was not like those around him. As a matter of fact, if the truth be known, he would probably be considered a “Jesus Freak” in today’s world. In contrast to us, he knew what his role in “the preparation” was. Of course it’s easy for us to say “yeah, but he was commissioned by God to do what he did.” And while that is true, aren’t all Christians commissioned to have a role in the coming of Christ to others? (see Matthew 28: 18-20)

What can we do to prepare the hearts of others for Jesus’ birthday? How about some of these ideas: offer kind words or just a smile to those you come in contact with daily; bring some peace and comfort to those who are stressed by reaching out with encouragement; offer to do something for someone to help lighten their load; compliment someone; hug someone; and I am sure you can add lots of ideas to mine.

Yes, we too, can prepare the hearts of those around us by living Jesus’ words and loving others!

Prayer:  Father, show us how to help others enjoy the true meaning of Christmas this year!