Theme of the Day: Prepare to Meet Him
Scriptures teach that King Jesus is the Son of God in flesh and the only hope for salvation. Jesus himself claimed that he is the only way into the glorious kingdom of heaven. You do not approach meeting someone like that casually or carelessly. You prepare meticulously. What does that mean? What does a life of readiness—ready to meet such a King—look like? In one word: repentance. If we insist on hanging onto our sins, how can we receive the One who came for the very purpose of taking those sins away?
Throughout history, God has raised up called servants—like John the Baptist—to preach a message of repentance. This repentance is central to our preparation for the Lord’s coming. Without repentance, the King’s coming only terrifies. But all those who believe and repent look forward to the coming of the King and the consummation of his everlasting kingdom.
Mark 1:1-8
Isaiah 40:1-11
2 Peter 3:8-14
Psalm 85
308 – There’s a Voice in the Wilderness Crying
316 – On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry
317 – When All the World Was Cursed
312 – Comfort, Comfort All My People
311 – Dawning Light of Our Salvation
Prayer of the Day: Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to prepare the way for your only Son. By his coming, give us strength in our conflicts, and shed light on our path through the darkness of this world; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. And all people will see God’s salvation. Alleluia.