January 10
(Luke 3:15-18 NIV) “The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ. {16} John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. {17} His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." {18} And with many other words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them.”
(1 Corinthians 1:11-24 NIV) ““My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. {12} What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas "; still another, "I follow Christ." {13} Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?””
People began to wonder if John the Baptist might be the promised Messiah -- the long awaited Christ. But John was quick to point out that he was a mere servant of God. He declared that he was not even worthy to untie the sandals of the Holy One who was coming. He was just a voice in the desert, pointing people toward the coming Lord. He preached that all people should repent and watch for the coming Light of the world. His message of judgment was good news because it pointed people toward the Savior of all mankind. Why do we keep making gods out of our human leaders? Why are we so quick to declare that we are followers of this politician or that preacher? We hang on their words and flock to see them. We even faint in their presence. But there is only one who saves and baptizes with the Holy Spirit. His name is Jesus. Only He has the words of life. Follow Him! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day
No comments:
Post a Comment