See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.

The prophet Malachi lived approximately 450 years before the time of the nativity in Bethlehem. Unlike Isaiah, who dreamed and spoke in great visions of joyous upheaval at the coming of the Lord, Malachi spoke of a more personal task of preparation.

Waiting is hard. Waiting millennia, through wars, oppression and exile, the people had lost sight of the promises and teachings of their God. Malachi foretold a messenger who would come before and lead a renewal of faith and a restoration of purpose. Even then it was a cry in the wilderness to hold fast to the faith and continue to trust in the promise of the Lord.

As we prepare for the joy of that Holy Night, we too must search our hearts and minds. Now, two thousand years beyond the nativity, we struggle to follow the One who came. We still exist in a society of oppression, discrimination, hunger, and idolatry. Indeed, there are still cries in the wilderness. And there are the words of Christ Himself to guide our paths.

Are we really listening? Are we following the True Path?

Almighty God and Loving Christ, make us instruments of your peace. Create in us clean hearts and keep us ever mindful of your faithfulness.

Contributed by Jim Gilbreath