Adventಮಾದರಿ

How prepared are you?

‘Guys, please. I need you to stop what you’re doing and clean up your rooms. Your friends will be here in 10 minutes!’ I was met with groans of frustration. ‘Why Mum?’ Feeling defeated, I replied, ‘Because I like to pretend that we have a happy and tidy home’... ‘But Mum, that’s lying!’ There’s a sliver of truth in that. But the real reason I prepare for guests is because it’s important to me that they feel at home during their visit. I prepare the food they like and stock their favourite drinks so they feel valued. And while my kids might not care yet, they invest in time preparing for what matters to them.

Isaiah 40:3 (NIV) calls us to ‘prepare the way for the Lord’. In the days of the prophet, Ancient Near Eastern and Mediterranean rulers routinely sent crews ahead of royal journeys to make the road safe, smooth and ceremonial. Great resources were invested in the preparation of a highway for the ruler to travel. John pointed to the true king – yet we don’t read of disciples filling potholes for Jesus. So, what is it we are meant to prepare?

I can rally my kids to clean but ultimately it’s not a spotless home or perfect snacks that make my home inviting. It’s my heart – the very place Jesus gave everything to inhabit. So, as the Christmas celebrations begin, I invite you to take time to consider the condition of your heart. Are you investing in levelling the high places of your heart or smoothing out the rough? Because Jesus is the most important guest, and one who’s not just visiting but living in our hearts. I want Him to feel at home in mine.

Written by BEK ROBINSON