Province of St. Albert the Great, USA

2 January • Preparing for God in the Wilderness

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Welcome to "A Word of Hope" for January 2nd. Join Fr. Scott Steinkerchner from a quiet cottage on Lake Erie as he reflects on today’s Gospel and the figure of John the Baptist.

In today’s reflection, we look at the question posed to John: "Who are you?" John’s answer is simple yet profound—he is not the Messiah, but rather a voice crying out in the desert, preparing the way. We all face moments where we feel "out in the cold," waiting in the wilderness for something to happen.

Fr. Scott reminds us that God comes specifically through that wilderness. Our job isn't just to wait passively, but to actively prepare a way for Him in our hearts. Are you ready to make straight the path for the Lord today?

**Watch this video to find hope in your own periods of waiting and learn how to open your eyes to God's arrival.**

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**⏱️ Timeline & Key Moments**
0:00 - Introduction from Lake Erie
0:23 - The Question to John the Baptist
0:45 - Waiting in the Wilderness
1:08 - Preparing the Way for God
1:31 - A Prayer to Open Our Hearts

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