But by refusing to be baptized by him, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected God’s purpose for themselves. (Luke 7:30)
During this advent season,
we tend to be so preoccupied with the busyness of the Christmas holiday season
that we forget to prepare with reflection, silence and calm repose what is
really the reason for the season.
Earlier in this section of
scriptures Jesus is asked, “Are you the coming one, or do we look for another?”
Many times we look right over ways that tell us He is the one who came to bring
salvation to the world. Shouldn’t we be
looking for ways to turn the world upside down with our love and compassion to
others?
Jesus sure turned the world
upside down when he let the Pharisees and lawyers know they would not be first
in line to receive the grace of God and all it offers. They thought that others
where inferior to them. Their ego and feeling of greater self-worth prevented
them from turning around and repenting.
The same baptism offered and
received by many that day, was also available to them. Those who came and accepted
it received forgiveness, acceptance, restoration, reconciliation, mercy and justice. Those who did not were leaving behind that most precious gift
offered.
Our own pride and
self-reliance lands us in the shoes of the Pharisees on days. But we can daily
turn around and seek the forgiveness of our sins. As we turn around, what gifts
can we bring for those who need it most? Not by the standards the world tells us
is right, but by the way purchased for us on the cross.
Good and Gracious God, forgive us, accept
us, restore us and reconcile us to you. Let us die to sin and receive your
grace. Show us how to be the hands, feet and heart of Jesus to a world that is
scared, hurting and without your purpose. Bless all your children and give us
the calm and peace to wait patiently for you. Through your son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Georgia Suranofsky is
a Mission Interpreter for Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA.
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