The Season of Preparation

From Mark 1:3, we hear John the Baptist declare: “The voice on one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” John the Baptist was a messenger, telling us to get ready. That’s what the Christian Advent season is all about. It’s the season of getting ready. It’s the season of preparation.

First, we have to prepare our homes. Especially if we still have children at home. Oh, sure, we can put up decorations and lights and all those other things of the modern Christmas celebration. But don’t forget the real meaning of Christmas!

In Deuteronomy 11:19, we’re told to tell the stories of God to our children. “Teach the stories of God to your children, talking about God when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.” We’re not just preparing our homes for our family and us. We’re also preparing our homes for God.

Next, we must prepare our hearts. Let the spirit of this season, the Holy Spirit of God touch your heart. Make sure you take the time to let God’s love touch you and change you. Make sure you take the time to peek over the edge of the manger and look upon the face of God’s great love for you and then share God’s great love with others.

This child, this Son of God, enters the world and changes everything. God entered into our misery and sin with forgiveness, grace and love. God stepped out of heaven and into our lives through this baby born in Bethlehem. God is at work in the lives of those who open themselves up to this wonderful Child, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.