Preparing for Christ means clearing what stands in His way.
“The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”Isaiah 40:3 (KJV)
What does “Prepare” mean in Isaiah 40:3?
The prophet speaks of a voice calling out in the wilderness, telling people to get the road ready. The picture is of a highway being cleared for a king.
Going deeper
All four Gospels connect this verse to John the Baptist, who called people to turn back to God and get ready for Jesus. The road imagery is practical. Roads are cleared of stones, hills are leveled, and crooked paths are made straight. Preparing the way is hard, physical work, and it happens before the king arrives.
Advent asks us the same question. What stands in the way of Christ in our hearts and homes? For many of us it is busyness, a grudge we have not let go, a habit we know is harming us, or simply a schedule with no room for God. Preparation does not have to be dramatic. Choose one stone to move this week. Set aside ten quiet minutes, forgive someone, or take a step you have been avoiding. Small preparations open the road. Each stone moved is a step toward welcoming Him, and He comes gladly to those who prepare.
Reflect
What is one stone you can clear out of the way this week to make room for Christ?
Pray
Lord, make my heart ready for You. Show me what needs to be cleared away, and give me courage to begin. In Jesus' name, amen.
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