Another school year begins! Schedules are made, school supplies purchased, friends are welcomed back. September is a time of seasonal rituals. A time of new beginnings. New beginnings are important. They give us a chance to reflect on the things we have done and look forward to the future. Bu, New beginnings can be an apprehensive time as well. We might fear what is ahead or feel like we are not ready or worthy. A times like this i like to look for inspiration from others. John the Baptist helped to mark the beginning of Jesus' ministry, but you may not know that John felt unqualified to do what Jesus asked of him.
John the Baptist was born with a single purpose; "to make ready a people prepared to receive the Lord" (Luke 1:17). He was chosen for service and was "filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth". John also knew his position within God's Kingdom...he had come to serve. had devoted his life to preparing for the arrival of Jesus. He had focused all of his energy toward this moment. He was set upon obedience.
Yet the very first thing Jesus asked him to do, John resisted. He felt unqualified.
Why did Jesus ask to be baptized? It was obviously part of his mission in coming to earth. Jesus was confessing sin on behalf of the people. He was also endorsing John's ministry of baptism.
In addition, Jesus was identifying with those who were repenting. He was also setting an example for his followers. He was foreshadowing his death, burial and resurrection. And lastly, Jesus was announcing the beginning of his ministry on earth.
Do you feel unqualified to fulfill your mission from God? John felt unworthy even to unfasten the shoes of Jesus, yet Jesus said John was the greatest of all prophets (Luke 7:28).
God has given us help. We have been empowered by the Holy Spirit with the necessary tools to victoriously serve. Though our offering will always be imperfect, and far less than He deserves, it will be pleasing and acceptable if we give Him our ALL, give Him our best, and give from the innermost part of our heart.
Don't let your feelings of inadequacy hold you back from your God appointed mission.
"JESUS SAID TO FORGET THE MISTAKES AND LOOK FORWARD TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES."
LET'S START THIS YEAR WITH MORE OPPORTUNITES!
