On this the third Sunday in Advent, it all comes together. The One who restores Israel is the One who brings good news— release to the captives, help to the oppressed, and joy to the broken-hearted.  The One who restored Israel’s fortunes back in the days of Isaiah is the One who sent John to make straight the way of the Messiah.  The One who became flesh and dwelt among us is the One whose return we are waiting for.  Now is the time to rejoice, to pray without ceasing, and to prepare for salvation to come to us.