Our scripture this week is Matthew 3:1-12.
This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’”
Matthew 3:3
John the Baptist recalls for the crowd the words of Isaiah 40:3 that speak of preparing the way for the Lord. Israel had heard the summons of God ever since He brought them out of Egypt and into the Promised Land, but they often ignored His call to be ready. They followed their own desires instead.
John is a prophet as in the days past, and he calls them to repentance and being prepared for the King who is coming. Many are gladdened by the promise and are baptized by John, however many scoff and still do not believe God will act. Even these who turn away now Jesus will still try to reach.
People often want there to be an easy way – can’t we keep doing what we are doing and still be saved? John says “no” and Jesus will teach us that “no one comes to the Father except by me” (John 14:6). We need to make the change in our lives now and accept Jesus as our Lord in order to be part of the world that is to come.
Gracious God, we are weak and so stuck in our own ways, Help us to see the light and truth of Christ and to change our hearts and lives through Him. Amen.