Luke 3:3 [John son of Zechariah] went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Commentary says of John, “Simply said, John was weird.” I love this description more than I can express. I have a soft spot in my heart for weirdos and misfits, for those who never quite feel like they fit in. I understand that feeling on a gut level. And for the herald of the Lord to be a weirdo gives me hope for the ways Jesus can use me.
Luke 3:7 John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?
Here’s the thing: We often believe that fitting in is the goal. We want to be loved and accepted. And we often feel that if we are in the least quirky, fitting in isn’t possible, which means we are destined to live on the fringes forever. Again I say, to fully realize that the herald of the Lord is a weirdo, too, gives me such hope.
Luke 3:8 “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.
Lord, Thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That You for the quirky, weird parts of myself that I often struggle to accept. Use me in Your service, Lord. Help me to shine Your light and bring You glory. Amen.
Luke 3:9 “The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Have a blessed day. I love you.