Prepare the Way

Dec. 01, 2014 Monday Message:

“John will lead many people in Israel to turn back to the Lord their God. He will go ahead of the Lord…” Luke 1:16-17a CEV

Never underestimate the value of preparing the way. That’s what John the Baptist did - he prepared the way for Jesus.

Jesus could have simply appeared at the appointed time: “Hey! Great Redeemer, here! Anybody interested?” Probably not.

But John got the people ready: “Clear the way for the Lord’s coming!” He told the people to expect the Messiah, to watch for the Messiah. John encouraged people to repent and return to the Lord, and he baptized them in the Jordan. When Jesus came forth for baptism, John said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! He is the One…” And John testified that the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus, like a dove from heaven.

Because of John’s work, when it was time for Jesus’ ministry to begin, people were ready for it. “I’ve heard about this. I’m on-board; I want to be part of it too! So this is what John was talking about!” In other words, the people weren’t taken by surprise; they were well prepared.

By the way - it’s always a good idea to thoroughly prepare your congregation for any significant change. Preparing the way, you see, is biblical!

Norton Lawellin

Every Sunday Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, Dec. 7, Pastor Michael Pilla continues our Advent journey.