Every one wanted God in those Days. Is should be a good thing right? But the irony was most of the wicked and wretch things was done in the name of the Lord. I need God for MY needs, MY desires, MY satisfaction, MY growth, MY quick money, MY pleasure. Look at their temple - it was a market places. Look at their teacher, the Pharisees - they provided resources called the Steps to Spirituality. Do these or follow these to attain a higher level spirituality!!
Is this not the same today? At least I am like this. Recently I wondered what is the purpose of the many things I do and I was ashamed and broken to realise that it was all about me. I was trying to understand that John meant by the following verses:
Luke 3:11-14
11 He answered and said to them, He who has two coats, let him give to him who has none. And he who has food, let him do likewise.
12 And tax-collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, Teacher, what shall we do?
13 And he said to them, Continue to do no more than that commanded to you.
14 And the soldiers also asked of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said to them, Do not oppress anyone, nor accuse any falsely. And be content with your wages.
John was preaching a very great message here, one the most important commandments of the Lord - Love your neighbor. But I noticed that is related to the one mentioned earlier - Do every thing to Glorify God ie. Love the Lord your God. Come on, it was not only the rich, soldiers and tax-collectors who had questions. There were many who came to John, asking what shall we do an here was John who was preaching live a simple, minimal, giving, faithful and caring life. All these characters point to that of Jesus. Was John enabling the people to see the Messiah who lived among them? People who live a simple life will definitely know a person who lives a simple life. One of the reasons why Gandhi had a huge following was because of his simplicity in life. The people could associate with him not only as their leader, but even more as their father, guide, teacher and friend.
Where am I going with all this?
Lord, I have only lived for myself all my life. I give that I may receive. I do that I am find peace with God. Here I am, filled with selfishness and self pity (and many more :) I am in the process of finding out) I dont know what to pray. Give me a humble spirit, that Glorifies You in all things. Living as my Lord Jesus did, simple, caring and giving; walking in His footsteps. To live in such manner that other may see the life of Jesus in me. That was a huge thing to pray about. But I have this small faith in me that You are able to all this and even more. Build my faith Lord! Lord, when opportunities come to do all that I prayed for, Lord let me recognize and act upon them with your grace. Let me not stray! Let me not run away! - Amen
