January 5

Matthew 3:1-12 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

Matt 3:11 "I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Observation

John the Baptist must have been a sight to behold. This one voice crying in the wilderness wore a garment of camel's hair with a leather belt and boldly proclaimed that the kingdom of God is at hand. He warned the Pharisees and Sadducees to bear the fruit of repentance. People from all the regions of Jordan were coming out to him and were being baptized and confessing their sins. John was charismatic, popular, powerful, effective and successful. He proclaims that another is coming who will baptize the people with the Holy Spirit and fire but adds a personal commentary. John compares and contrasts himself with the coming Messiah: John baptizes with water, he will baptize with Holy Spirit and fire. He is mightier than I, I am not worthy to carry his sandals. These words sound like a personal testimony from John. Even in the midst of his success, he did not become self absorbed but maintained a focus on God's purpose and Messiah. More importantly, as he does that, he cannot help but be filled with humility which leads to praise and worship.

Application

Am I successful? If I enjoy a measure of success, on whom am I focusing? It is easy to become self absorbed in good times and critical of God in bad times. The spiritual truth is that I should focus and praise God in good times. In bad times, I should examine my heart and seek God. John said "I ___ but he..." Follow the example of John and always complete the sentence by saying "but he ..."

Prayer

Lord, I confess that I am very forgetful. I selectively remember what I do and forget what you do. Thank you for reminding me how you will use what I do for your greater purpose. Let me enjoy the measure of success I have only in relation to how it plays a small part in accomplishing your will.

--Jason Kim