John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, "I am the voice of one calling in the desert, Make straight the way for the LORD."

John 1:23
During December, most people do not think of “Advent,” the coming of Christ, as the heart of Christmas. At best, the birth of the Savior is associated with the “holiday season” along with all the other preoccupations. Sometimes it’s hard to concentrate over the sounds of office party laughter, Christmas movies, shopping ads and traffic jams. Things certainly have moved a long way from that first Christmas night, haven’t they?
But even surrounded by all the noise and hype, we can, in the quietness of Spirit, hear God’s voice. Listen closely to it as the people did when John’s voice called in the wilderness. He urged them to repent and know that the kingdom of heaven was at hand (see Matthew 3:1). That message still comes to you and me today. John baptized those who came to him as he waited for the Messiah’s ministry to begin.
Jesus brings hope and healing to our lives. Set aside those things that take you away from Him. Even as you celebrate with loved ones, kneel before Jesus, the One whom the celebrations are all about.



Scripture Focus

John 1:15-27

Insight

“Christ came to bring peace and we celebrate His coming by making peace impossible for six weeks of each year….” (A. W. Tozer)

Bible In A Year

  • Ezekiel 45-46
  • Proverbs 3
  • Hebrews 1-2

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