Second Sunday of Advent

On this 2nd Sunday of Advent, we are introduced to one who spoke as a "voice in the wilderness": Jesus' cousin, John the Baptist. As a messenger and forerunner, John's ministry was to call his hearers to "repent" -- that is, to change their hearts and lives. Such a turn would help prepare the way for God's coming among them. But is the promise of what is to come only for us who prepare? Or is our preparation in order that others and all the world might see the salvation of our God?