In today's gospel, John the Baptist tells the priests and Levites that he has come to "prepare the way of the Lord." Pastor Jonathan shares with us that Advent is his favorite part of the church year. While Christmas is the celebration of the coming, Advent signifies the hope that leads us to the Kingdom. We may not be able to avoid the challenges that we will face, but th promise of Advent provides us with the increasing light that will lead us through.