Matthew 3:1-12: Prepare the way of the Lord

How can we prepare the way for the Lord’s coming? Little gestures of repentance are obviously not enough, even for well-behaved, church-going people like us. The Pharisees and Sadducees tried that, and John the Baptist rebuked them, warning them (and us) to “Bear fruit worthy of repentance.” Luke’s version of this story (Luke 3:1-14) adds more specific instructions, which all seem connected with economic justice. Those in powerful positions, like tax collectors and soldiers, must resist the temptation to enrich themselves by unjust dealing. Those who are prosperous must share their abundance with the poor.

Thus John’s preaching identifies selfishness and injustice as major roadblocks that hinder the Lord’s coming into our lives and the communities in which we live. Can we devote some time during this Advent season to dismantling those roadblocks, which divide us from our neighbors as well as from God? Can we prepare straight paths for the Lord by helping to feed the hungry, provide safe housing for the homeless, and stand in solidarity with those who are oppressed? If so, we may share in the sweet promise of restored, reconciled humanity that follows the prophet’s call to prepare the way of the Lord: “Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together.” (Isaiah 40: 3-5).