Preperation

​12/17/20
Today's devotion for today is based on John 1:22,23: "So they (men sent by the priests and Levites from Jerusalem) said to him (John the Baptist), "Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" He said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said."
John the Baptist's mission was to go ahead of Jesus, preparing the way and proclaiming the King's imminent arrival. He was to blast through sinful pride and self-righteousness, to urge people to repent of their materialism and overconfidence, their lack of priorities and spiritual apathy, to get them ready and eager for the arrival of the One who could save them.
Prepared hearts are hearts that daily loathe the sin within us and celebrate the arrival of our Royal Deliverer from heaven. He comes to us repeatedly in his Word and sacraments, bringing gifts most valuable—forgiveness of sins and peace with God. And on the last day, he will come not in simple means, but in awesome power, riding on the clouds of heaven, bringing our ultimate deliverance. As you prepare for that day, hear and heed John's clarion call: "Repent!” "Prepare!” "Make straight the way of the Lord!"
Please join me in praying the prayer for today: Heavenly Father, creator, and sustainer of all things, seen and unseen, stir up your Holy Spirit within me that I will be prepared to welcome Jesus on his return.  I Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen