	Bob Hostetler > Devotions

Prepare the Way

by Bob Hostetler

Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him (Luke 3:4b, NIV).

It was only after repeated, detailed safety sermons that I first allowed my two children to help mow the lawn. Even then, it took months of careful supervision and instruction before I allowed them to do the whole job (yes, I do tend to be obsessive-compulsive). But nonetheless, before I let them begin their work, I would first mow a wide path around trees, bushes and other obstacles in an effort to make their job safer and less complicated.

John the Baptist did a similar thing as the forerunner of the Messiah. The Gospel-writer Matthew describes John's ministry as "A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" John's message and ministry smoothed the way for Jesus; he helped ready people for Jesus' appearance and message.

We do something similar when we befriend people who seem far from God, show them a kindness, or speak openly about our blessings and struggles. People are not always ready for a bold witness; sometimes we must begin by "preparing the way for the Lord," smoothing the path so that when an opportunity for witness arises, people are ready for Jesus' message to their heart.

Prayer: Lord, make me sensitive to opportunities to prepare the way for You to speak to people's hearts.

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