Luke 3, Part 1

Scripture: Luke 3:1-20

Observation: The ministry of John the Baptist. Most of John's ministry is summarized in this chapter, yet it's obvious the power it had. Crowds were coming to be baptized, but John told them repentance needed to come first. The people asked what needed to be done, and John was very specific. They knew the law, but John told them to share with the poor. To the tax collector he said not to take more than what was due, and soldiers not to be extortionists. When asked if he was the Christ, he made clear he was preparing the way for Christ. Still, John's preaching was radical enough to get him jailed.

Application: The same terms apply to us today. Repentance is necessary to have a relationship with Christ. Turning away from sinful ways to serve our Lord is not always easy. Changing the habits that we've become comfortable with can only happen when we've experienced a change of heart and turned ourselves over to the Holy Spirit for renewal.

Prayer: Lord, though I've accepted You as my Lord and Savior and try to live a life worthy of You, I recognize I fall short everyday. Whether by my actions or thoughts, I manage to grieve You. Yet it's my desire to serve You. Please forgive my wrong actions and lead me to do what is rights and holy. You deserve my very best, and I will give You no less. In Your Holy name I pray, Amen.