Christian Reflection and Prayer

FLEE THE COMING WRATH

And he (John) went into all the region around the Jordan,
proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness
of sins (Luke 3:3)

 

Read Luke 3:1-9

 

Luke anchors John's ministry in human history by listing
the Roman emperor, the governor of Judea, and the ruler
of the northern province of Galilee where Jesus is living.
John preaches in the region near the Jordan River. Huge
crowds come out to him, but he is aware that some are
here for the wrong reasons. Some are merely curious;
others don't recognize any sins in themselves that need
to be washed away. John boldly challenges them: "You
brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath
to come?"

 

These strong words challenge us to look deep within our
hearts. John has come to prepare the way for God's
mighty Son. He calls us to recognize our faults and
failings and humble ourselves before our God. This
baptism is not an empty, meaningless ceremony. It is
God's solution to the deadly poison of our sin. Through
water and the Word God washes away our sins,
delivering us from death and hell, and saving us from
His destructive wrath.

 

On the Last Day, Jesus will return to earth to execute
God's judgment. He will cast into the eternal fires of
hell all that refuse to accept the forgiveness and
salvation He came to win for them. Today is the day for
you to escape God's wrath and find peace and eternal
salvation in Jesus your Savior.

 

THE PRAYER

 

Almighty God, You sent John to prepare the people of
Israel for the coming of Your Son Jesus. Through the
powerful words spoken by John, prepare me for Jesus'
second coming, that I may escape Your fiery wrath.
I pray this in Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

Lenten Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries