Preparation

I vividly remember the day when I saw my first president in person.  I was eight years old.  The preparation for that sunny day in Sacramento California was intense!  We were going to see the president.  It was an extraordinary event.  I had no idea what to expect, but this was going to be great.  Even though I know was not going to actually meet him, I was confident I was going to see the real president, not just an image on the television set.
 
I stood on a mailbox along his route, anticipating the event.  Mom had helped me slick back my hair.  I was wearing a fresh pressed shirt and slacks.  I had polished my shoes so much I could see my reflection when I looked down.  As we got ready and then rode in the car to our spot, I worked extra hard not to scuff my shoes or get anything messy. 
 
 We, society, seem to have lost much of our awe.  Maybe the human part of the presidents, kings, and queens equation is so revealed that we don’t think he or she deserves our respect.  Maybe we tend to combine the role of freedom in strange ways with trust and honor, rejecting each and all in the end.  Maybe we don’t think we really need anyone in authority over us.  Sadly it isn’t just presidents that we treat poorly, Divinity and our souls fall into the same bucket.
 
When I hear the cry – “Thunder in the desert!  Prepare for God's arrival!  Make the road straight and smooth, a highway fit for our God.”  (Isaiah 40.3)  I hear a call to freedom, honor and trust.  God is worthy.  God has earned our trust and respect.  God is part of our freedom.
President Kennedy flashed by my spot in his motorcade.  I don’t remember what he was wearing that day, I didn’t care.  I had seen the president!  He was real.  He smiled and waved.  It was as if it was just for me.
 
God is here, just for you.  Just for me.