Day 3/260: Read Luke 3

John the Baptist’s public ministry began before Jesus’; he was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, sent to “Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” John preached “a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.”

In his preaching on repentance, he gave some specific instructions to his audience. He told the general population to share with those in need; he told the tax collectors to treat others fairly; he told the soldiers to stop being bullies and be content with their financial state. Are these not needed reminders for us today?

Everyone has committed sin, but because of God’s grace and mercy, we can be forgiven. We need to repent and obey and commit ourselves to a life of faithfulness. While Jesus did not need baptism for the remission of His sins (since He had no sins), He still needed to obey the command of God.

What commands of God have you disobeyed? Are you greedy with your possessions? Do you cheat others out of what is theirs? Do you bully those around you? Have you repented and been baptized to have those sins washed away? Are you now living righteously in God’s sight?

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

Luke 5:31-32: Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are ______________ have no need of a physician, but those who are ______________. I have not come to call the _______________, but ______________, to repentance.”

Pray

Pray for forgiveness, recognizing the need for repentance and faithfulness. Pray for strength to be a good example to others.