Counting the Days: December 6, 2025

Clearing the Way for Christ

Bronson Shaikh
Freshman
Fredericksburg, Va.

Read: Luke 3:4-6

“At the beginning there are great struggles for those who draw near to God.”
– Amma Syncletica of Alexandria (AD 270 – AD 350)

When I think of this passage, I think of it almost as though God is preparing the way in my life, smoothing out rough ground and clearing a path straight into his presence.

Growing up, faith was not simple for me. My family came from so many different religious backgrounds; some deeply believing, others seemingly not caring in the least. I remember sitting at the dinner table and hearing bits of prayer, moral advice, and even casual comments about religion. And my head was just filled with questions: Is faith something people just invented to bring order? Are the Bible and prayer just man-made rules?

But I kept asking. I talked with friends who believed. I read Scripture. I prayed quietly, hesitantly, not sure if anything would happen. Over time, something changed-not just in my mind, but in my soul. The quiet persistence of my questions led me somewhere unexpected: to a deep sense that God is real, that he’s not distant or impersonal, but personal and near.

Now, I feel God’s hand shaping my journey. Just as John the Baptist called to “make straight paths,” God is straightening mine-not magically overnight but gently, patiently. He’s making space in my heart for Christ, guiding me step-by-step.

As I walk, I remind myself: this isn’t just about moral rules. This isn’t just about traditions. It’s about a living, breathing relationship. And if God is doing this for me, I believe he’s doing it for others, too.

Prayer: God, meet me in the clearing work—my questions, my courage, and the space I am making for You. Help me wait with hope, trusting that You are drawing near, even now. Amen.