“As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: ‘A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation.’”
- Luke 3:4-6 -

The phrase ‘in the wilderness’ refers back to Isaiah, as quoted in verses 4–6, and to Abraham’s and Moses’ encounters with God in the wilderness. The wilderness has been a crucial part of the journey of God’s people throughout Scripture and throughout history. In fact, it is the place in which the prophetic message is formed and birthed, for it prepares the way for God to move in and through his people. John’s experience in the wilderness prepares him for his prophetic ministry (v 2), which in turn prepares the way for the life and ministry of Jesus the Messiah (vs 15–17). This time in the desert allows John to recognize Jesus and his coming baptism with the Holy Spirit and with fire. The harshness of the wilderness, with its stripping back, heat and scarcity, is often the place where we find God.

PRAYER: Gracious God, when I find myself in wilderness places, let me feel your presence and trust your faithfulness.

(A Summary from Encounter with God)