October 28 Affirming You

Luke 7:24-28 After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 25 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written: “‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ 28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet, the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
 
JOHN the Baptist’s disciples had come at John’s request to affirm that Jesus is the prophesied Messiah. Jesus sends them back to John, who is in Herod’s prison cell. They take with them Jesus’ affirmation that salvation has, indeed, come into the world. The Kingdom of God is displayed in physical and spiritual renewal as “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.” (Luke 7:22) Jesus restates that he has fulfilled Old Testament prophecy. He is the One to come.
   Then as Jesus has affirmed himself to John, he in turn affirms John’s unique Kingdom role to the Jews. Jesus speaks often of the Old Testament prophets. But now he points out that John is a special prophet. Other than Jesus, John is the only prophet whose life was foretold in the Old Testament. Jesus quotes from the prophet Malachi, who spoke of a messenger, one like Elijah would come. Jesus teaches here and elsewhere John fulfills that prophecy.
   Then Jesus continues with his affirmation that there is someone greater than John! You know who that is, don’t you? It’s you. Yes, it’s you! Jesus affirmed this is true when you confess your sins and proclaim to the world, “Jesus is my Lord and Savior.” With this faith, you enter into the new promise of salvation through Jesus’ atoning blood. So saved, you are God’s own forever. No prophet, even a specially chosen prophet, is greater than one who is child of the Living God.
   Do you see how valuable you are as God’s own? You can look for affirmation in many places in your earthly life. But there is just one true place to find it. Your life’s value lies in Jesus alone. Rejoice. Seek a true, loving relationship with the Lord. Be in awe your God so affirms you. Live in joy.
 
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, that I am of such value to you that you gave your sinless life to me. In your name I rejoice. Amen.