The smaller something is, the closer you have to get in order to see it. That’s why the best way to view the gifts God gives at Christmas is “up close and personal.” God acts in ways that seem small so we can get a good look at the big things he’s doing. Today we see how Jesus prepares us for his second coming by sending messengers to prepare the way for him. Those messengers may not always look that impressive. Sometimes, like John the Baptist, they may even look odd or unusual. But the words Jesus puts in their mouth draw us away from our busy, hectic lives and call us to turn our hearts toward Jesus. The call to repentance comes through a person and comes to each of us personally.