Scripture: Luke 3:7-8
John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.
Thought for the Day: John did not go to the Dale Carnegie school on how to Win Friends and Influence People. I would imagine that if I started my sermon this way next Sunday that most would be less than pleased, and a few might invite me to consider different employment. Sure, there are times when a community might need a verbal smack down to communicate the dire nature of the concern. And if asked, I am guessing that John would explain how that moment along the Jordan was one of those smack down moments. In the past, I have usually read it from John’s perspective. Maybe it’s because I’m a preacher, but I do smile as I think of him cutting loose on the folks. That might not necessarily be the best way to enter the scripture. Could it be that I need to hear how my actions might align me with a brood of vipers (a bunch of no-good snakes)? Most people have a tendency to read scripture from the hero’s perspective, but how often are you the hero in your own story? I’ve been challenging myself lately to find at least three perspectives each time I read a passage/story in the Bible. The one that makes me the most uncomfortable is the one with which I continue to wrestle.
Prayer: Don’t let me off the hook, O Gracious God. You are kind and generous and loving, but you also want me to be the best person I can be. Assist me as I explore scripture, and don’t allow me to take the easy way out. Amen.
NEW SERMON SERIES STARTS SUNDAY
