“Are you the one, or should we expect another?” These words came to my mind the other day. Those words were spoken by John the Baptist, through his messenger sent to Jesus. John, who was in prison at this time, had heard about the miracles and such that Jesus was doing. Realizing that his life was probably soon ending, John was likely concerned about the men and women who were following him. Who should they go to for spiritual advice and direction? Who should they follow to get closer to God? So, he sent a messenger to Jesus asking the question. “Are you the one?” Are you the real deal or are you an imposter? Are you just a fraud?
What brought this story from Matthew and Luke’s gospel to mind is that recently we’ve had to deal with a couple of “scam” messages or bills that have come to me. The bills look real, but I’ve found myself asking, “Are you the real deal…or should we expect something else?” And upon digging deeper, sure enough, the bills and messages received weren’t genuine, they weren’t trying to be helpful…they simply wanted my money and nothing more.
One of the things that I find disheartening about our culture today is the amount of energy, time, creativity, and resources that are wasted every day, by people trying to “scam” other people. I’ve often said, “If only that creativity and energy could be used for good in our world.” What a difference that could make!!
Really though, it isn’t just the telemarketers, the bogus bills, or the “I need your discreet help with an important matter” messages that I receive (from the fake Bishop, no less) on a regular basis. There are so many things in our world today that are vying for our attention and promising incredible rewards, opportunities, and results in our lives if we just use this, buy that, follow them, “like” us, invest here, etc., etc. But the truth is, most of them are just a sham and will not deliver on what they promise.
Then there is Jesus! One of the reasons why I believe Jesus is the “real deal” is because he doesn’t promise that everything will be wonderful in life once we follow him. There’s no, “Follow me and you’ll lose 30 pounds, or life will suddenly make sense, or relationships will be healed, or problems will all be solved, and everything in life will be hunky dory.” No, Jesus says there will be struggles, there will be difficulties, there will be problems to deal with in life. Jesus said, “Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He promises us rest, he promises to be with us at all times, he promises the Spirit to guide and strengthen us. He doesn’t promise that everything will suddenly be magically wonderful. He doesn’t even promise an easy life. He promises to be with us and to love us…always!
Today on my journey through this day, I am seeking to lean on, rely upon, and follow Jesus. I know there are frauds and scammers trying to lead me down a different path. I’m sure there are times I’ll be tempted to follow them. Sometimes I might even take a step or two in that direction. But my hope and my prayer is that I will always look for and be drawn to the “light of the world,” Jesus. Yes, Jesus, the one who loves me and calls me to love others, as challenging as it may be, is the real deal. Today, and every day, I seek to recommit my life to follow Jesus, the one I believe is the TRUE light of the world! How about you?? Let’s journey together along the path of faithful living!
Pastor Keith