Devotional Messages

DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE

Luke 1:76-77 – “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.” (NRSV)

Are you ready?  We’ve spent weeks preparing, abiding in anticipation.  The candles have been lit; the wreaths have been hung.  We’ve probably all done more shopping than we needed to, unless you’re that person who hasn’t started yet!  Cookies have been baked; candies have been made and shared.  But are we ready?

In the Song of Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, who had not been able to speak since the angel of the Lord told him that he and Elizabeth would have a baby, finally has his tongue unstopped and breaks forth in praise.  He speaks blessing over his baby, the baby he never thought he would have.  You, child, have a very special role in God’s world.  You are here to prepare the way.

Just a few weeks ago, John was warning us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Christ Child.  Before Christmas can truly dawn in our hearts, we must clean them out and dust out the corners we haven’t looked at in a while.  Are there regrets or grudges we need to let go of?  Are there habits that aren’t healthy we should ask for help in quitting?  What would it look like to truly welcome Christ as though we really do expect him to change us?  It is not too late to prepare!