There is a lot of talk in today’s readings about filling in valleys and leveling mountains. When Israel was exiled far from their homes, this was a sign that God was going to make the way of return to Jerusalem as easy as possible. When it was time to come home, God would make a “highway” in the desert.
When we sin, we end up in exile from God. Our relationship just isn’t right. But when we’re ready to come home, God doesn’t make it difficult. He makes a highway. The quickest and surest way back to God is offered to us in the Sacrament of Penance.
This week, there will be the opportunity to go to confession in communal penance services throughout the area. Many people who physically still come to the church building can often be far from God. If your relationship with God doesn’t seem as strong as it could be, get to confessions this week, even if it’s been a while. Confession is how God has prepared a highway for us to come home this Christmas.