Preparing The Way

For as long as I’ve been in Houston (and probably many years before I came to Texas), the Houston Symphony Orchestra and Chorale has performed Handel’s “Messiah” each December. Wikipedia says that Messiah “is an English-language oratorio composed in 1741 by George Frideric Handel…It was first performed in Dublin on 13 April 1742 and received its London premiere nearly a year later. After an initially modest public reception, the oratorio gained in popularity, eventually becoming one of the best-known and most frequently performed choral works in Western music.” Handel composed this masterpiece in only 24 days, and its text consists entirely of quotes from Scripture.

One of Messiah’s most famous songs (Ev’ry valley shall be exalted”) quotes a prophecy made by Isaiah concerning the return of the children of Israel from captivity in Babylon. It also points to the coming of the Messiah. One of Jesus’ biographers, Luke, includes the same quote and applies it to John the Baptist’s role in “preparing the way” for Jesus’ coming. The Baptist smoothed out His path and provided an introduction, so  Jesus’ message more accessible.

The season of Advent gives each of US the opportunity to participate in the same task undertaken by John the Baptist. WE can prepare our own hearts to receive Jesus’ message. WE can do our part to love our neighbors who are less fortunate (see the “Read more” section). YOU can experience a deeper joy than what our secular world can provide during this hectic time of year.