The words of John the Baptist, as reiterated from Isaiah, about preparing the way for the Lord mean more than just the roadside preparation common in that day as a dignitary's arrival was imminent. Personal preparation means allowing Christ to fill our valleys of disappointment and discouragement and to come alongside him to aid others suffering oppression, discrimination, or injustice. 'Mountain and hill made low' is perhaps a warning to those living lives of comfort and demonstrating no compassion for the less fortunate. Crookedness of any kind—in individuals, businesses, governments-needs to be made straight. And our rough ways of insensitivity need to be made smooth. How are you preparing the way for the coming of Christ?