Scripture: Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” He told them, “Don’t collect any more than what you have been authorized.” Some soldiers also questioned him: “What should we do?” He said to them, “Don’t take money from anyone by force or false accusation; be satisfied with your wages.” Luke 3:12-14
Observation: As John the Baptist is preparing the people for the coming of the Messiah, they are asking him about what true repentance looks like. Besides the general 'crowds', two groups are singled out - tax collectors and soldiers. Tax collectors were notorious for being false and manipulative, extracting extra taxes for themselves. Soldiers were known for being intimidating extortionists, requiring payment for protection and other goods for their living.
John does NOT tell either group to stop and quit their professions. Instead, he merely tells them to ... honestly do their jobs. Tax collectors should only collect proper taxes. Soldiers should accept their wages and not extort anything more. In other words, it is completely possible to be a tax collector or a soldier who both does their job to its fullest AND is living rightly in the sight of God, and this is accomplished by simply and honestly doing ones job well.
Application: Clearly, my job has been on my mind. There are frustrations, issues, and turmoil around me. I sometimes wish I were pursing further advancement. I sometimes wish I had chosen an entirely different career. I often question what I should be doing.
God has always answered my questions in this regard: I am to do his work, where I am, while doing my job in a manner that honestly treats my staff and others. In this manner, I can bring him glory and opportunity to shine the light of Jesus into an unlikely place (a government IT operation).
John gave the same answer. A soldier or tax collector who declared he was honest as a sign of repentance would be a powerful witness for Jesus ... as we learn later through the examples of Levi, Zacchaeus, and the centurion officer. An IT director who treats everyone with respect, care, and patience, while continuing to strive for operational quality and new innovation, could be a powerful witness for Jesus. This is the answer I get from God.
Prayer: Lord, as always, I will dwell in the land you have set me and seek only your leading and direction. Please aid me in being your light, without any dimming caused by bad behavior, anger, or frustration. My frustrations will be so much less when I know that my true work and mission, being your disciple and servant, is the actual race in which I daily strive. I will keep that prize before me. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment