Sounds like a good Biblical quote, right? Wrong. You may recall this line from the movie, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” in his search for the Holy Grail. It was one of three tests Indie had to pass to reach the sacred cup of Christ, but of course, if he failed the penitent test he would lose his head – literally. Although the movie is a fictional thriller, I believe John the Baptist would concur. Only a penitent man, or woman, can truly be open to receive Jesus.
During this Season of Advent, we continue to be challenged to “Make Room for Jesus” in our crowded and busy lives. However, according to Luke’s gospel to get to Jesus we must first deal with this fiery, camel haired clothed, bug eating prophet, John the Baptist. John’s mission was to prepare people to get ready for God to move in but there’s this test of repentance. Nothing to lose our heads over, or is it?
Do you repent so God can love you more? Do we repent to compel God to change his mind about us? No, repentance doesn’t change God’s affection toward us, but it will change our affections. It doesn’t change God’s mind about who we are, but it will change our minds about who God is. Repentance opens the door to invite Jesus into our home and life will never be the same.
John tells us that the way to God is through Jesus. Tomorrow we will lift the cup of Christ (the holy grail),in Holy Communion and witness the birth of the one who will grow to prepare the way for the coming messiah and after all these years, he still does.
So, in the spirit of John, I dare you to join us,
Pastor Rob
“A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” Isaiah 40:3 NIV
