Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. (NIV) Mark 1:3
Centuries before Christ’s birth, God told the people of Israel that He was sending a Redeemer. And that He would send a messenger to prepare the way for His Son. God said in Isaiah, “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, . . . A voice of one calling: “In the desert prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. . . . And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” (NIV) Isaiah 40:1-5
According to plan, the messenger arrived. . . “The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way”– “a voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'” And so John came. . . And this was his message: “After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (NIV) Mark 1:1-4, 7-8
Before Jesus was born, the Jews were anticipating the coming of the Messiah. God had prophesied about it, the prophets had told the people to watch for Him, and the teachers and priests encouraged them to wait in anticipation of the coming King.
Who around you is looking for Jesus? This Christmas, don’t let them miss the Messiah! Point them to Jesus Christ. Tell them about how He has changed your life. You’ll be amazed at how many are anticipating the “arrival” of Christ in their lives! Don’t wait any longer, watch for someone today who is looking and longing for the love of God!
