The Forerunner and Baptist John preached in the wilderness of Judea. Many people from the region came to hear him say, “Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” You also came from Galilee to be baptized, Lord Jesus, even though You had no need of repentance. The Heavenly Father then said of You, “This is My beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased.” Both the newly baptized and the yet unbaptized therefore sang praises to You:
Save us, Only-Begotten Son of God Who was sent into the world to redeem mankind.
Save us, Son of the Virgin Who freely offers forgiveness of sins to all.
Save us, Jesus Christ Who was baptized in the Jordan River by Saint John the Baptist.
Save us, Savior Who never sinned but fulfilled all righteousness.
Save us, for we have heard the holy preaching and we are born of water and of the Spirit.
Save us, for we desire salvation and a virtuous life.
Save us, for the heavens rejoice when a sinner repents.
Save us, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.
Save us, for we repent daily and prepare a way for You, Lord Jesus.
Save us, for we continually make our path straight for You, Immortal One.
Save us and make us worthy of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.
Save us and make us heirs of the Heavenly Kingdom.
Christ our Savior, save us.