Matthew 3:1-6
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’” Now John wore a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

John the Baptist made his days count. He lived life “plain and simple”–camel hair clothes and a leather belt; roasted locusts (surely, he didn’t eat them raw) and wild honey to eat. But what impresses me most is that John the Baptist was a man who knew his purpose. He was on earth to prepare the world for Jesus, and he never wavered. He lived with a spiritual focus. Isn’t that the kind of life you want to live?

Let’s do Christmas differently. Let’s follow John’s lead and prepare the people around us for Jesus. Demonstrate to your family and friends how he has transformed your life. Tell those in your world why Jesus came. Explain to them why Jesus had to die and share how they can have a relationship with the Savior and receive eternal life.

Let’s make Christmas count. Let’s use the opportunities throughout this season to prepare the way for Jesus. And let’s keep sharing the good news throughout the year.

Father, remind me often to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus. Remind me to pick up the pace and follow hard after him. Remind me when I need to slow down and regain my focus. Help me be a preparer of the way. For Christ’s sake. Amen.