Good morning! Going out on our own is always a risk. Sometimes we have to learn by trial and error. We look for road maps, read books and ask for advice from skilled people to guide us along the way. It is not always easy, opposition seems to find its way in the best of situations. Today, we will continue to read about John the Baptist who prepared the way for Jesus. Enjoy today’s devotion. 

BIBLE VERSE – Matthew 11:7-11 NIV
^“7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? ⁸ If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. ⁹ Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. ¹⁰ This is the one about whom it is written:
“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,
    who will prepare your way before you.’^{[Malachi 3:1]}

¹¹ 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.”

REFLECTION

Jesus spoke to the crowd in a way that would pierce their hearts and call to memory the significance of John the Baptist and the call on his life. He pointed out that he wasn’t an ordinary man whom they should forget, but reminded them of the reason they were drawn to the John the Baptist – who called the people to repentance and to be baptized.

The Lord has given us all gifts and a purpose here on earth. Our calling may not be as grand as John the Baptist who prepared the way for Jesus by telling the people to ‘repent and be baptized’, yet the Lord is still calling us out of our complacent lives to impact the world for Christ. 

Are you ready to and willing to share the love of Jesus Christ with others? ______

Are you ready to tell others that there is hope for the lost, forgiveness for the sinner, salvation for those who believe and receive Christ Jesus as their Savior and Lord? ______

Are you willing to count the cost to pickup your cross and follow Jesus? _______

If yes, amen. If not, keep praying for the Lord to change your heart.

PRAYER

Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior to die on the cross for our sins, to be buried and on the third day He arose from the dead. Lord, thank you for His victory over death, for the forgiveness of sins and the opportunity to be reconciled to you. Lord, there is no greater love. Lord, thank you for giving us life. Lord, help us to live a life that is pleasing to you. Lord, help us to reach people in this world and share the gospel message with them. Lord, we want to be your faithful servants. Guide us in the way we should go. Keep us attuned to your voice and direction. Lord, don’t let us swerve to the right or the left, help us to stay focused on you. Lord, be our rock and our fortress as we go out in the world today. Give us insight and wisdom as we seek to follow you all of our days. Lord, bring healing to the sick and brokenhearted. Lord, release those who are in bondage to addictive behaviors or substances. Lord, set the captives free. Lord, help us to be more like you every day, loving others as you love us and having compassion on those who need compassion. Lord, as you have forgiven us, Lord, help us to forgive others. Lord, continue to change us. We ask all these things in Jesus name, amen. 

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