The Lenten Adventure Participant Forum

I often wonder,not if John knew through foreknowledge of his future, or if he cared. I am glad to see you realize that John, the Baptizer, had HIS life changed there at the River Jordan that day. His statement has always been, to my understanding, something like "Why do you come to follow me? It is I who must follow You!" Jesus also "defines" his purpose in this statement, as well. "Let it be so, so we can secure ALL righteousness!" John's participation in the securing of righteousness for all mankind was the crowning mark of his ministry, not just his baptism of Jesus. I think it is for that purpose, as much as any other, that Dad showed up, and showed off that day--if for no other. It was every bit John's victory and confirmation, as well. We do tend to miss that, I think. Which leads me to the question: Why John? He already had other disciples baptizing in the River Jordan. Jesus could have chosen any of many, yet it was to his cousin, who leapt for joy in the womb. These are the (mostly) bookends of John's life. He also had no problem whatsoever in "decreasing" in his ministry from that moment onward. Simeon, Anna, John...they knew the limits of their authorization from God. They had unfailingly done all that had been asked of them, and had each in their own way had their faith confirmed.

I believe that was Dad's progression for His Kids then--and it is His progression now. As it was for John, so it was for Jesus only 36 months later. John's ministry--every second of it, was kissed by the Creator of the Universe. Why? This is a very important point, I think, for us to understand, because it extends us where we must truly be--back to creation! God is ALWAYS sure in His word, and in His promises to His Kids. IF we do our part, Dad is absolutely certain to do His part. He did it from the beginning. He did it here for John, and for Jesus.

He still does it today, for us, His Kids. This adventure is, for me, a task. But, well above and beyond that, it is an opportunity. By sharing not all there is to know, but some of what I know (within my limits), if I remain faithful, Dad is SURE to remain faithful. As He was faithful to John, to the Prophets of old, and to His own Word even from the beginning, so will He be honored and glorified THROUGH HIS BELOVED in this endeavor as well. I rest calmly with that full and certain truth, a promise to be fulfilled. I believe HE has called each one of us to this, HIS Adventure for His purposes. I pain that any would not fully seek the Blessings He has promised to those who love Him and follow His Word. Yet, that is absolutely NOT my job, or my call. I can, do and will continue to pray for us all as we trek together, because God gave His Blessings in the beginning, in the garden, through the history of his people to John, and Jesus--and to each of us today. John's Blessings was a visible, audible, public confirmation of every word spoken to be true--regardless of what the nation of Israel thought about it. In Jesus, we will surely see that in even more powerful ways. And so can we see it, know, and confirm for ourselves that the God of Israel is still madly in love with His Kids--that's US!

Blessings,

Budroe

Let Lent LIVE!

Budroe
Budroe