Reflection:
“Prepare the way for the Lord…” — Isaiah 40:3
Preparation often feels ordinary and boring. Things like folding the laundry, making lists, cleaning… but in God’s rhythm, preparation is holy. Every small act of readiness becomes a doorway for peace. When we prepare our hearts, homes, and even our bodies, we’re making room for God’s presence.
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. - Proverbs 21:5
Instead of rushing, what if we slowed down and asked: What am I getting ready for today?
The other morning, I went for a short walk. The air was cool and still, and I noticed a robin hopping from branch to branch. She wasn’t hurried or anxious—just quietly going about what she was created to do. She wasn’t worried about if she was getting it done or if she was doing the right thing like I am. The trees around her stood strong and ready for the season, each one rooted and prepared without striving.
As I watched, I was reminded that God has built preparation into creation itself. The birds are provided for, the trees change with the seasons, and the flowers bloom right on time. I know I’m not the only one who worries that they are not enough or won’t be ready. None of them rush, and none of them stress about tomorrow—yet they are always prepared in the way God designed.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. - Matthew 6:34
God has it all figured out. Today, tomorrow and every day after that till the end of time. We don’t even have to worry about what we are going to say. “Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say. “(Exodus 4:12) I am so grateful for this… I worry about what to say all the time!
It made me think: what if preparing for the week ahead could feel this natural? What if, instead of scrambling and worrying, we rooted ourselves in Scripture—one verse, one truth—and let that be our quiet preparation?
So, why do we need to be prepared?
Preparation isn’t about controlling every detail of our lives—it’s about creating space for peace. When we take time to prepare our hearts with God’s Word, we’re less likely to be tossed around by the unexpected. Preparation gives us an anchor: a steady verse to return to when things feel overwhelming, and a reminder of God’s presence in the ordinary rhythms of our days. As Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” Instead of scrambling through the week, we can move with intention, rooted in the truth we’ve already planted in our hearts.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. - Isiah 26:3
That’s why I love choosing a verse at the start of each week (see below and the attachment). It’s like planting a seed of truth that grows throughout my week. This week, I invite you to do the same: open your Bible, prayerfully choose a verse that speaks to you, and let it be your steady rhythm as you step into the week ahead.
Quiet Ritual for Preparation:
This week, try a simple evening ritual of preparing your body and spirit for rest.
Cleanse your skin gently, noticing the day washing away.
Massage in a nourishing oil (like lavender, rose, or frankincense) as a blessing over your body.
Write one line of prayer or gratitude in your journal:
“Lord, prepare my heart for tomorrow.”
Rest in stillness, trusting that God is already preparing the next day.
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