I cannot imagine the pressure of the one tasked with preparing for Jesus Christ. Maybe that is why John the Baptist was so short with those around him. The stress was getting to him, and he knew there was a lot to do with very little time. He knew what was coming, why it was coming, and who was coming. I am sure, to him, all of it was extremely overwhelming.
Christianity can, at times, feel that way, too. Where do we begin? What do we do? How do we make a difference in the world?
John makes it pretty clear just what we should be doing. Do we have extra of anything? We should share it with someone in need. We should be the bearers of fruit in the world. Whatever our profession or vocation might be, we should do it with the utmost integrity and honesty. Surely that would be pleasing to both John and God.
In order for us to prepare the world appropriately, we need to mention that “c” word that most churchgoers do not like to hear: Change. It is essential to the transformation and preparation process, both for us and for others.
Preparing the way implies something has to change. While change is never easy, sometimes it is necessary.
Do we have to change our harmful habits? Do we need to have a change of attitude or perspective on someone or life itself? Should we be reminded that an act of negligence and dishonesty should be called out by someone and told it is unacceptable? Definitely.
Change, although difficult, is not something new to this world.
The world changed when Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden fruit, allowing sin to enter into it and permeate to all present and future life.
The world changed when John the Baptist began his ministry and called for repentance.
The world can change any time we offer someone the coat off our back, the food on our plate or the honesty in our hearts.
When we prepare the way, we are creating change, or at least trying to create a culture of change. Maybe by changing ourselves, others can see that and it will incite a change in their own hearts and minds.
Our preparation is not solely for Jesus Christ, but also for our children and our children’s children. We all want the world to be a better place for the younger ones, do we not? That change, and that preparation, begins with us. We must be the example.
Remember, Christ Jesus told us He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, we should get the world prepared for Him accordingly.