Monday 19 November 2012

Monday - But what should we do

Prayer:    Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall proclaim Your praise.  O God come and help me.  Lord support and save me.  I will sing and make music for You, awake now, my heart.  O God arise in the heavens, Your glory shines in this world.  Amen.

Read St. Luke  3:  7-14

You brood of vipers.     Goodness.   That is very strong language.  John the Baptist is calling  all those in the crowds a “brood of vipers”.   And why?   Because John’s  calling was to prepare the way for the Messiah by opening everyone’s  eyes to repent and return to God.     The people thought they were just fine as they were.   They were God’s Chosen People.   John the Baptist is telling the people that even though they are God’s Chosen People,  they need to repent and return to God.    John the Baptist provides an illustration for the people --  the ax is ready at the root of the trees and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.     Finally the people begin to ask themselves, “Goodness,  perhaps we need to re-look at our lives!”   They ask John what they should do in order to repent. 
John replies  if you have two coats,  give one away to the person who has nothing.   If you have food and see someone who is starving,  share your meal.
The tax collectors then say to John, “Teacher,  what should we do?”    John replies that they should not collect more than they are required to by the Laws of Moses.       The soldiers ask John, “And what should we do?”    John replies, “Rob no one by violence or false accusation and be content with your wages”.  
While each grouping of people that asked John, “But what should we do?” already knew the answer to their question.    Their question shows that they are looking inward at their lives and seeing someone that needs to fully depend upon God.    This question also means that they are willing to change.  And that is awesome.
Today,  look inward at your thoughts and actions and ask God, “But what should we do?”

Prayer:  Return to the Lord,  for He is tenderness and compassion.  In the day of distress we call, for You answer me, O Master.  There is none like You.  We come and worship You.  We praise Your Holy name.  In Jesus name we pray.  Amen.

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