As we prepare our homes, church, community, and workplaces for Christmas, I hope that we will invest an equal portion of time preparing our hearts for the Advent of the King. Trimming the tree, stringing the lights, hanging the wreaths, lighting the candles, singing the carols, and enjoying the festivities of the season are preparations that are meant to be savored and enjoyed. But preparing our hearts to encounter the Savior is something that is meant to be life-changing for us and for our neighbors. The life-altering, eternal destiny-changing gospel of Jesus is at the heart of Zechariah’s song of Christmas.