Making Straight the Way

Second Sunday of Advent (Year A)

December 7, 2025

Matthew 3:1-12 – "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight."

Rev. Bobby Musengwa

Transitional General Presbyter

The corresponding Old Testament lectionary passage for this Sunday is that of Isaiah's vision for peace. In the midst of terrible loss and national tragedy, the prophet lays out an unfathomable vision of peace that truly passes understanding. Clearly, human endeavors could not attain such peace. Yet we must continue to work and strive for it. 

In the Gospel lesson, John the Baptist preached in the wilderness, on the edges, away from the center of religious life. And that's where the Spirit moved. John fearlessly spoke truth to power. He was unrelenting in calling out the powerful and all people to repent and prepare the way of the Lord.

Preparing the way for Christ means clearing obstacles: pride, fear, injustice, oppressive structures, rigid assumptions about how God should work. It means repenting, literally, turning around, so we can see what the Spirit is doing.

For our Presbytery, this Advent question becomes: What needs to be cleared away so the Spirit can move more freely among us?

Maybe it's governance structures that no longer serve mission. Maybe it's old grievances or tired arguments. Maybe it's the assumption that renewal only happens in familiar ways.

The Spirit is still speaking from the wilderness. Are we listening?

Reflect: What obstacle is the Spirit asking you to remove from the path?

Prayer: God of new beginnings, clear the way in our hearts and in our churches. Help us release what blocks your movement and embrace the new thing you are doing. Amen.