Jeremy Riddle - Prepare The Way Of The Lord Lyrics
Lyrics
Prepare ye the way of the Lord
Prepare ye the way of the Lord
Oh, the way of the Lord
Make straight paths for His feet
Clear a way in the streets
Prepare your hearts to meet
The One who is coming
Every valley shall be raised
The rough places become plains
His salvation comes today
To those who would receive Him
What His words have foretold
All together we'll behold
Every knee bending low
On the day of His coming
Now is a time of urgency
You must repent and believe
For the day of reckoning
Comes with His coming
Video
Jeremy Riddle - Prepare The Way Of The Lord
Meaning & Inspiration
Released on March 3rd, 2009, as part of Jeremy Riddle’s album *The Now And Not Yet*, the song "Prepare The Way Of The Lord" stands as a potent and prophetic call to spiritual readiness. From the moment its opening lines unfold, it’s clear this isn't just another worship song; it's a direct echo of ancient biblical summons, designed to stir the soul and awaken a profound sense of urgency. The track immediately transports the listener to the dusty roads of Judea, recalling the thunderous voice of John the Baptist, who declared in the wilderness, as recorded in Matthew 3:3 and echoing Isaiah 40:3, "Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight." This central theme anchors the entire piece, making it a timeless message for every generation awaiting the Savior.
The very essence of the song is a compelling invitation to active participation in God's unfolding plan. The opening refrain, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord," is not merely a historical reflection but a contemporary command. It calls for more than just passive anticipation; it demands deliberate action. This preparation is then vividly illustrated by the subsequent lines: "Make straight paths for His feet, Clear a way in the streets, Prepare your hearts to meet The One who is coming." This imagery, deeply rooted in Isaiah 40:4-5, speaks to both outward conduct and inward transformation. Spiritually, making paths straight means removing the obstacles of sin, doubt, and apathy that hinder a genuine relationship with God, much like a king's path would be cleared for his arrival. But the ultimate destination of this preparation is the heart, the very core of one's being, aligning with passages like Psalm 51:10, which pleads for a clean heart, and Jeremiah 24:7, where God promises a heart to know Him. It emphasizes that true readiness for Christ, whether in His first coming or His promised return, begins within.
The song continues to build on this powerful imagery, proclaiming, "Every valley shall be raised, The rough places become plains, His salvation comes today, To those who would receive Him." This directly quotes Isaiah 40:4, painting a picture of God's sovereign power to level all spiritual and emotional landscapes that obstruct His presence. Valleys of despair, mountains of pride, and rough terrains of disobedience are made smooth by His grace. The declaration that "His salvation comes today" is particularly vital, echoing 2 Corinthians 6:2, which reminds us that "now is the day of salvation." It’s an urgent reminder that the opportunity for redemption is not relegated to a distant future but is available here and now for those who, as John 1:12 states, "receive Him and believe in His name." This speaks to the accessibility of God's grace and the personal decision required to embrace it.
As the narrative progresses, the lyrics pivot to the ultimate fulfillment of prophecy: "What His words have foretold, All together we'll behold, Every knee bending low, On the day of His coming." This section powerfully connects the present call to prepare with the certain future revelation of Christ's glory. It is a direct reference to Philippians 2:10-11, which affirms that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord." This is not just a poetic flourish but a theological bedrock, assuring us that every promise concerning Christ's reign will come to pass, and His sovereignty will be universally acknowledged. It’s a glimpse into the majestic and awe-inspiring reality of His return, inspiring both reverence and eager anticipation.
Finally, the song crescendos into an unmistakable call to action: "Now is a time of urgency, You must repent and believe, For the day of reckoning, Comes with His coming." This is the Gospel distilled to its core components. The "urgency" underscores the finite nature of our time and the importance of immediate response. "Repent and believe" are the foundational commands of Christ's ministry (Mark 1:15) and the apostles' teachings (Acts 2:38), signifying a turning away from sin and a turning towards God in faith and trust. The phrase "day of reckoning" serves as a solemn reminder of accountability, aligning with biblical teachings about the final judgment described in passages like Matthew 25:31-46 and Revelation 20:11-15. It underscores that while God is merciful and extends salvation, there is an ultimate day of justice and evaluation that accompanies Christ's glorious return. Jeremy Riddle’s song is thus not just a melodic arrangement of biblical themes; it is a spiritual clarion call, inviting us all to personally engage with the timeless message of repentance, faith, and eager preparation for the King who is both present in our hearts and coming again in power and glory. Its message resonates deeply, inspiring individuals to examine their lives and ensure their paths are straight and their hearts ready for the Master.