Advent 2015 Preparing the Way

A voice cries:

"In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; 

make straight in the desert a highway 

for our God. 

Every valley shall be lifted up,

and every mountain and hill be made 

low;

the uneven ground shall become level, 

and the rough places a plain. 

And the glory of the Lord shall be 

revealed, 

and all flesh shall see it together, 

for the mouth of the Lord has spoken." 

Isaiah 40:3-5

The Lord's first advent was celebrated by few. It was a small company that were ready. A few astronomers, some shepherds, two holy souls in the temple, his parents, his aunt, uncle and cousin were all that made up that first Christmas party.  The astronomers brought him tribute. The shepherds sang the first carols. The saints in the temple blessed His future. His parents prayed for help. His uncle and aunt were scared. It was His cousin who fulfilled the prophecy above. The blessed John the Baptist. He is a martyr, a prophet, the baptizer of the Lord. He is rivaled by none. The Lord speaks of His friend John after he was martyred, "I tell you, among those born of women, none is greater than John." (Luke 7:28) John was privileged to live the life He did, to make the sacrifices He did and He dwells now amidst the rewards for His life. 

Today the second Advent of the Lord draws near. Who shall be ready? Who shall prepare the way? In the desert of ignorance that plagues our societies who shall mark out the highway? The valleys of depression and greed must be raised. The mountains of pride need be torn down. The circling chaos causing such uncertainty in the lives of His creation shall be calm. The rough places, the pain, the suffering, the despair will be made smooth as glass. Where are the workmen who shall accomplish such engineering? Where are the architects that shall outline the plan? 

In the days of old, Isaiah stood before the throne of God and heard the heavenly call. "Whom shall we send? Who shall go and be our messenger?" Today that divine summons sounds forth through the earth.  Today the legacy of John the Baptist is being carried on by the disciples of Christ around the world. It is our part, to join them. The celebration of advent is not to be pleased with oneself. If we would truly honor Christ, truly celebrate what He came to do, it is not enough to gather family and friends and have a good time. Jesus asked for specific presents. Let's honor Him this Christmas season by giving him a present He has actually requested. 

Pax Vobiscum until tomorrow