Friday, December 08, 2023

Devotion - December 8, 2023

 Be Prepared

Readings: Is 40:1-11, Ps 85:1-2, Ps 85:8-13, 2 Peter 3:8-15, Mk 1:1-8

When I was a Boy Scout, the motto “Be Prepared” was one of the first statements I learned.   “Be Prepared” to do the right thing for any situation that may occur.  This has stuck with me throughout my life.  “Be prepared,” for the weather, for the unforeseen such as a disaster, prepare my finances, prepare me to protect my family and prepare me for my walk with God. 

As for preparing our spiritual life, God speaks to the people of Israel telling them to be prepared for the one to come.  One that will lead them in their life (Is 40:1-11) and cover their sins, (Ps 85:1-2, Ps 85:8-13).

In Mark (Mk 1:1-8) the reader hears that there is one being sent to prepare the way for another yet to come.  John the Baptist was the one sent to not only prepare the people for their salvation by being baptized to repent and remove their sins, but he goes one step further to inform them that there is another to come, and he will bring the Holy Spirit upon them.  So once again we were being prepared.

We do not know what tomorrow will bring in our life.  We can only live for today.  We are to be prepared, for the new heaven and earth (2 Peter 3:8-15) to come.   We can Prepare ourselves by, studying the word of God, praying, and having conversations with God and listen for the Holy Spirit to guide our walk.  We can be prepared for the celebration of Christ’s birth this Advent and prepare our souls by knowing Christ as our savior. “Be Prepared.”

Pray: Father God guide us to be prepared for the Birth of your son and prepare our souls by Christ’s salvation for the time when he will return and there is a new heaven and earth. Amen

Fred Herr
Certified Lay Servant

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