Scripture: Matthew 3:6-8 (the Message)
There at the Jordan River those who came to confess their sins were baptized into a changed life. When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: “Brood of snakes! What do you think you’re doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any difference? It’s your life that must change, not your skin!”
Thought for the Day: I don’t like change, but who does? Though the other day my wife suggested that we change which side of the bed on which we sleep. I have always slept on the side closest to the door, but she wanted to switch. I reluctantly agreed, but even offered my concern that I would get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom and would run into the wall out of confusion. Well that was two nights ago, and let me confess that I have had two of the best nights of sleep I’ve had in ages. Coincidence? Maybe… but maybe not. We should never assume the outcome of change will always be good, but change is not necessarily bad.
John the Baptist knew that change was a prerequisite for discipleship. We toss around words like repent, show remorse or express regret. These might be important steps, but they are not the final product of our journey. Change is what God desires, a change from the inside out. The change that John was referencing was so dramatic that it would be seen in every aspect of a person’s life, every aspect.
Prayer: With the words trembling upon my lips, Lord, I ask you to help change whatever it is within my life that is hindering my discipleship. Please, Lord…but do so gently and with grace. Amen.
See You In Worship
TOMORROW
