Sunday, December 7 – “Prepare the Way of the Lord”

Scripture

“The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make

his paths straight.’” Mark 1:3

Reflection

John the Baptist stands as Advent’s great herald, a figure of fiery faith, humility, and

urgency. He appears in the wilderness, far from comfort and acclaim, calling Israel to

repentance and renewal. His cry echoes through the centuries: “Prepare the way of the

Lord.” Advent’s task is not simply to remember Christ’s first coming, but to ready our

hearts for His coming now.

To prepare the way means to clear away the obstacles of sin, pride, and distraction

that block His passage into our lives. It means to make room for the Lord, not merely with

words, but with conversion. John’s message is not condemnation but hope: the valleys of

despair can be lifted, the mountains of pride made low, the crooked ways of our hearts

made straight.

For the EOHSJ, this preparation carries a missionary dimension. The Holy Land,

sanctified by Christ’s footsteps, also calls for renewal, of faith, peace, and reconciliation.

To prepare His way there and everywhere means to live the Gospel in action, to bring the

light of Christ to those who still dwell in shadows.

John’s humility also reminds us: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” True

Advent preparation leads us away from self toward the Lamb of God, who alone takes

away the sin of the world.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to prepare the way for Your coming. Remove from my heart

whatever keeps me from You, and make me an instrument of Your peace and mercy. Amen.

Meditation Question

What in my life needs to be made straight for the Lord’s coming? How can I help

prepare His way for others?