Second Sunday of Advent
Bar. 5:1-9 | Ps. 126:1-6 | Phil. 1:4-6, 8-11 | Lk. 3:1-6
John the Baptist is one of the Advent People who reminds us what it means to prepare for the celebration of God’s coming. God continues to come to us in a new manner each day and so John the Baptist reminds us to prepare anew each day. John tells us that we are to: “prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” If we do so, the valleys of our lives will be filled in, the mountains will be lowered and all the rough ways will be smoothed. Baruch echoes this theme by telling us that strife will be replaced by peace, and Godly Glory. Paul also reminds us that it is God who began the good work in us and that God will bring it to completion. God does not leave jobs unfinished and will bring all to completion through Jesus Christ. It is this Jesus for whom we prepare. Advent reminds us that we have been called and blessed to be followers of Jesus Christ. We are encouraged to prepare the way for Christ by tilling the soil of our souls so that Christ can be received and we will be changed. Paul encourages us to prepare for Christ’s coming with a clear conscience and blameless conduct.”
How have you prepared for Christ’s coming since November 29? What steps have you taken to prepare the soil of your heart to receive Christ each day? What can you do to be better prepared? What might you need to do less of in order to do more preparation for Christ? How will you do this? Take one positive step today.