Prepare the Way - Week 1: Preparing for God's Presence

In the first message of our series called Prepare the Way, Pastor Mel draws from John the Baptist's call in Matthew 3 and Isaiah 40 to urge believers to actively prepare their hearts for God's presence, much like preparing a home for an honored guest. Using the analogy of hosting a visitor, he outlines three practical steps: first, "Clean Up" by confessing sin and pursuing inner purity, supported by passages like Matthew 23, 1 John 1, and Psalm 51; second, "Declutter" by removing worldly worries and distractions that choke spiritual fruitfulness, emphasizing undivided devotion to the Lord as encouraged in Matthew 6 and 1 Corinthians 7; and third, "Serve the Guest" by prioritizing what pleases God—rejoicing over lost sinners coming to repentance, offering praise and thanksgiving, and delighting Him through the lives of His humble, obedient people. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to make straight paths in their hearts so that every obstacle is removed, the ground leveled, and the glory of the Lord fully revealed in their lives.