“They began reasoning among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But shall we say, ‘From men’?” – they were afraid of the people, for everyone considered John to have been a real prophet” (Mark 11:31-32).
Here is the contradiction that every politically thinking person faces: how far can we push this. This first points to the reality that free thinking people cannot be controlled. The second point is that the wicked seek to control. The Lord does not use force, the wicked do. You have been offered salvation and invited to live in the salvation of Christ. Do not be swayed by fear of men but gain wisdom with fear of the Lord.
Lord, You are loving and gracious, but You are also serious about the condemnation of wickedness. The two are together. We see it in nature. It is beautiful and glorious, but it is also quite dangerous. Help me to live with wisdom, knowing that all things are in Your hands. Guide me to see that in You is hope and an eternal future. John’s baptism was from You. Lead me by Your baptism to repent of the wickedness in me.
Lord Jesus, You have come to lead the way through this rebellious world. Help me to see more clearly each day and not be driven by the winds of the fear that is in this world. Let me be afraid of neither the crowds nor those who seek to gain control but fear You above all things. Lead me into Your love so that I live a life that is faithfully following You wherever You lead me. Amen.
