The answer is: Isaiah

Isa 40:3

In the thrilling opening act of the Gospel of Mark, we meet Isaiah, the first prophetic voice to be quoted. Mark directly references this upper-tier prophet in 1:2, connecting his ancient prophecy to the arrival of Jesus. Specifically, Isaiah 40:3 talks about a messenger preparing the way for the Lord, painting a vivid picture of divine expectation. Imagine the scene: as people anticipated something grand, a voice cries out in the wilderness, calling them to prep their hearts!

What’s so fascinating about this is how the old blends seamlessly with the new. Isaiah's message isn’t isolated; it resonates throughout Scripture. Even Jesus himself emerged from this continuity of prophecy, where past aspirations meet present realization. Fun fact: Isaiah is sometimes called the Shakespeare of the Bible because of his powerful poetic imagery and eloquence, influencing not just his contemporaries but generations of reflections, writings, and movements in history.

Additionally, many believers might remember that "voice in the wilderness" part from the book of John, where John the Baptist directly embraces the essence of this proclamation. This intertwining solidifies a rich tapestry, where Jesus' life does not just burst into existence but builds upon a long-dedicated journey toward redemption and renewal for humanity. Mark brings us right into this narrative magic, setting the stage for events that shape our understanding of salvation and prophecy across ages.