Prepare the Way

In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, ‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”’ Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Matthew 3:1-6

John prepared the way for Jesus and would lose his life for doing so. He baptized all the people that came to him and confronted them with their selfish and cruel behavior. He wasn't always considered a popular guy, but rather he was compelling and people saw in him the connection to the Holy One. We often think we have to prepare by making everything perfect. Instead, we are invited by John's witness to make our lives compelling invitations to draw close to the Holy One, to be those who walk with those on the margins and those who have lost their way.

Wondrous Creator, you set apart prophets like John

who guide us into deeper relationship with you

who give us their comforts and their personal needs

so others might be drawn into the waters of baptism.

We are often to taken up with worry to make space

for those who frighten us and those who are different

we don't want to be singled out as wild as John

so we miss the opportunity for real holy connection.

Make us your people who always offer invitation

help us be those who set a feast for those around us

draw us close so we might draw others nearer as well

and give us your voice to proclaim love to all creation. Amen.