In those days John the Baptist
appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven
has come near.” This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The
voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his
paths straight.”” Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around
his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.
Matthew 3:1-4
If we saw John
the Baptist walking down the street, I think most of us would either cross to
the other side or call 911 on our cell phones to alert the authorities. What a strange
and peculiar appearance he must have had! If you were starting a new religion,
John would hardly be your first choice as the chief marketing officer.
Biblical scholars
surmise that John’s odd appearance and diet marked him as a member of a sect called
the Essenes. They lived in the wilderness and were tasked with preparing the
way for the coming messiah. Indeed, John did
just that. He knew exactly who and what Jesus was. John boldly pointed
his followers in Jesus’ direction, and then quickly stepped out of the spotlight.
In this way, John
becomes a source of hope for us. Throughout the Bible, God works, teaches, blesses,
and comforts God’s people through a dizzying array of misfits, oddballs, and
colorful characters.
Accordingly, it
isn’t really much of a stretch to expect that God can work through us too.
Similarly, John is a model for our discipleship. Point others to Jesus, and
then get out of the way.
How might God
be calling you to use your unique personality and gifts? How will you point
others to Jesus?
Lord and Savior Jesus, equip us in all
our uniqueness to serve you. Stir us to point others to you, for the kingdom, the
power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
The Rev. Scott
Schul is Pastor for Education and Outreach at Grace Lutheran Church in State College.
He leads chapel services at The Village at Penn State and his wife, Linda, works
there as a CNA.
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