Yesterday we saw John the Baptist born and his father's powerful reaction at the coming promise of God.
In Matthew 3:1-12 (CEB), John is on the scene "preparing the way for the LORD." He's quite a picture actually, in his ancient prophet clothes and strange diet. Despite his craziness, his message is consistent, "Change your hearts and lives." (v.2)
At first he is speaking to whoever will listen, but soon some of the "religious right" show up, apparently to see if he is just a nut or what. Most likely they want to make sure he isn't going to threaten the way of life they belive to be right, namely theirs!
He doesn't waste much time jumping on them, and says the same thing to them he was saying to the masses, "Produce fruit that shows you have changed your hearts and lives." (v.8)
In anticipation of the Advent (literally "coming") of our LORD, this season is a great time to reflect on what needs changed in our hearts and lives. This materialistic, individualistic, consumer-driven world has a tendency to push it's way into our lives, so much so, that we can easily begin to think that it's "right."
Thankfully, John's message during this Advent season is a powerful reminder that anything which doesn't line up with the Kingdom of Heaven is ready and waiting for change!
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