This chapter begins with a string of names of politically influential people, including two religious authorities. If there were such a thing as social media back then, these would have been the people trending. Some had come to a sticky end, others had governed poorly, and the religious people had only sometimes been effective. In short, they were much like many high-powered people we find
trending on our news feeds today—well-positioned people who enjoyed a certain amount of influence.
Yet, at a pivotal moment in the Gospel, God chooses an obscure, private, and until then, a relatively unknown man called John to prepare the way for Jesus' public ministry.
John’s profile was opposite to what we expect of an influencer.
He lived in the
desert, not a lavish home. He wore clothes made of camel skins, not trendy colourful silks and jewellery gifted by admirers seeking favour. He had the rough appearance of someone living off the land, not highly groomed with the latest oils and perfumes. In short, there was nothing particularly attractive in either his appearance or social standing.
John had a humble, self-sacrificing, deep commitment to God, which developed over years
of focus on God’s will. God responded by gifting John with a powerful prophetic voice, which John used for God’s glory.
Worldly position, power, privilege and possessions are no guarantee of God’s favour. God is interested in a person’s heart. If we are willing to enter into a relationship with God and not be distracted by the things of the world, God will meet us wherever and whoever we are.
Where do you find your heart today?
What governs your thoughts, attitude and actions?
Who or what do you see as your top priority?
You are precious to God just as you are. All he asks is you give him your heart.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
