In ancient days when a king was planning to visit a land he would never show up unannounced. He sent a herald ahead of time to declare his visit. The herald, appointed as the king’s messenger, made sure the people knew the king was coming. The message of the herald caused the people to take practical steps as they anticipated the arrival of their king. They responded by patching up roads and cleaning their homes and property making things presentable to receive their king.

Isaiah prophesied that a herald would prepare the way for the Messiah. He would appear on the scene, not to make the property and roads presentable, but to make the hearts of the people ready for the coming of the Lord. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, Behold, I send My messenger before your face, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight. Mark 1:2-3