Preparations: Day 3 of Matthew

Just about everything in life requires preparation...vacationing, parenting, marriage...in the days prior we prepare by spending our time, money and energy towards the event ahead.

In Matthew 3 thirty years have passed since Joseph took his new family in haste to escape a wicked king. Now we meet an unusual fellow named John, with a contagious (or revolting, depending on which side you stand on) passion for the things of the Lord. He stands on the shoreline of the murky Jordan and calls out for those in earshot to REPENT! For the kingdom of heaven is near!

This was the man verse 3 tells us, that Isaiah spoke of when he said, " A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare a way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.' "

It seems many of us spend more time preparing for a vacation than preparing our hearts for the coming of the Lord. See, John knew He was coming and he made sure to prepare his heart and call out for others to do the same. But the Lord Jesus is coming again! According to the Scriptures He is coming at a time we do not know!

Through Mark, Jesus tells us, "At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory." (13:26)

God is not calling you and I to travel to the banks of the Jordan to be prepared. But He is calling us to repent, keep short accounts with Him and point other to Him continually...much like John did.

As I prepare for my day, the Lord is calling me to prepare my heart in prayer and Bible reading. As I homeschool my boys, the Lord is calling me to repent of selfishness and joyfully use my teaching gift to bless my sons and point them closer to Jesus. Whether you are a wife, mother, friend, co-worker....the Lord is coming, my sister, and He is calling out through His Spirit "Prepare the way!" Will you and I take the time today to pray, repent and allow Him to make us a light for His glory as the time draws near?