And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:  Prepare the way of the LORD; make His paths straight.” Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough ways smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'”     Luke 3:3-6 NKJV

Our Scripture passage is referring to John the Baptist. Isaiah prophesied this in Isaiah 40:3. If you’ve studied the Old Testament, particularly the Pentateuch, or the first five books, you know the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years.

At the time of Jesus’ birth, many Israelites were still in the wilderness of disbelief. They still didn’t understand that the Messiah had been born. They were looking for a political king. Some even thought John the Baptist might be the Messiah.

We were first introduced to John the Baptist in Luke chapter 1, verses 5-25. John’s mother, Elizabeth, was a cousin of Mary. We know that John was born about 6 months before Jesus. He was born to be a forerunner to Jesus and to prepare people for Jesus’ ministry. He was encouraging people to repent and be baptized to prepare their hearts for Jesus.

If you were truly grateful for all of God’s blessings in your life, even if everything is not as you had hoped, are you ready for Christmas? I’m not talking about having all your gifts purchased, wrapped, and under the tree. I’m talking about your heart. Have you opened your heart and allowed the Holy Spirit to fill your heart? This is a time of year when many people are sad, depressed, or even downright mad. Do you fall into that category? Or, are you grateful for all God has done for you?

We must prepare our hearts for Jesus’ return. Just as many didn’t understand that the Messiah had been born, many live today, as there is no danger of Him returning any time soon. But we don’t know this. None of us knows when Christ will return to bring His children home. None of us knows when we will die and be called before the throne of judgment. Are you ready? Are you prepared? Have you repented of your sins? I’m not just talking about the ones you committed, but also about the ones where you failed to do what you were supposed to do.

John the Baptist came to prepare people for Jesus. Are you prepared for Jesus? Have you surrendered your life to Him? Have you been baptized, showing your death to your old sinful way of life and your rising out of the water as a new creation in Christ? Do you love Him with all your heart, soul, and mind? Do you trust Him in all things?

God sent His only Son to earth to live a life of perfect obedience. Jesus never sinned, but He took on our sins so that we might have eternal life with God the Father. John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus. And Jesus made it possible for us to spend eternity in heaven. His blood on the cross washed away our sins.

This gift is offered, but it must be accepted. Have you accepted this gift? Are you certain of where you will go when you die? If not, now is the time to know. Trust in Him today. Prepare your heart for Him this holiday season. Be an example to others and help those who are having a hard time.

We prepare our hearts by confessing our sins to Him and repenting of our sins. Ask for His forgiveness. Trust in Him to provide your salvation and strive to live a life that brings Him glory, honor, and praise. In all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, don’t forget to prepare the way. If you are secure in your salvation, do your best to show others the way.

Have a great day!