Prepare the Way of the Lord 

I remember going to Mass at my parish during Advent and hearing Father sing “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” (from the musical Godspell) to start his homily. I was completely confused because the singing felt like it came out of nowhere. But he went on to explain how that song summed up the Advent season. We are preparing the way of the Lord. 

In today’s Gospel, we see that John the Baptist knew that Jesus’s ministry was coming, saying “I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire.” He was helping people repent so they could be ready for Jesus’ world changing ministry. As ridiculous as he might’ve sounded, the people who listened were able to repent and prepare. Just like actors and actresses practice for the big show, preparing themselves to perform, we need to prepare ourselves for his Second Coming.

This can also apply to modern-day society. While we are preparing for the Christmas parties and all the gift giving, we sometimes forget, myself included, what we are truly preparing for. One thing that helps is remembering to fit in the Sacrament of Reconciliation to repent of my sins and be fully present to celebrate Jesus’ birthday.

As we prepare for the Lord, I pray that each of you can truly enjoy the Advent season and the Christmas season. Let’s also take time to pray for those who aren’t practicing Christians, that this Christmas season can help them see the good that God can do in each one of our lives. 

By Ben Hooper