What do we value? (Lent Devotion) - Friday, March 8
What do we value?
Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. (Matthew 11:11)
John the Baptist was amazing! He certainly walked with God. Additionally, he lived like my American Indians ancestors - in the “wilderness,” dressed in animal skins, living off the land. He was not part of the world’s powerful elite. He had no interest in personal property. And like many tribal people, he was all about relationships, specifically a strong relationship with God.
John's life was focused on the Almighty and the Eternal.
Unfortunately, he suffered the same fate as many Indigenous people. The people of John’s world did not know what to do with him, so he was killed.
Yet, Jesus said that no man born of a woman was greater than John the Baptist.
Jesus didn't value John for who he knew or what he owned. He didn't value him because of who his parents were or how many degrees he held. John's value came from his faith and dedication to the Lord, for his humility and willingness to do God's will to prepare the way for the Savior.
Jesus knew John's heart. What would Jesus say about your heart?
It is easy as 21st century Americans to forget the simplicity of faith and the great need that is right in front of us - telling God's children about the Savior.
Lord help us to rethink where our values lie. Help us to have a heart like John the Baptist and to live lives that guide your children to you, specifically the original inhabitants of this land. Amen.