Father, it has been a long but fulfilling weekend. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to celebrate my dad’s birthday with him and then be able to go to church with him today – that is a rarity for two pastors. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the blessings given.
Matthew 3:11-12 (<<click the green)
One of the never-ending tasks of my full-time job as a Jewelry Supervisor in a Kohl’s Department Store is keeping the floor of the jewelry bay behind the case line clear of clutter. Inevitably freight needs to be processed, display components need to be stored away, signs and toppers must be put back in the right area, things that are not jewelry need returned to their proper departments, etc., etc.
As I read today’s passage, Lord, it states that You “will clean up the threshing area.” John the Baptist uses an illustration of a farmer “separating the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork” in order to accomplish that task. Lord, You are the farmer who will separate the chaff – those who are unrepentant – from the wheat – those who repent and believe that You are who You claim to be.
The winnowing fork is used to throw the grain into the air, the chaff – the worthless outer shell – blows away while the heavier wheat kernel – the useful portion – falls to the ground. The wheat is gathered to use. The chaff is burned.
John is prophesying as to what the coming Messiah will someday do. We are still waiting for it to happen – and we can surely be grateful for Your patience, Lord – but most assuredly it will happen.
Lord, I have repented and I truly believe in You. The day for cleaning house is getting nearer every moment. May I be ever diligent in being about the work of Your kingdom. Use me as You will to show others the need for repentance. Amen.
Oct 1st, Sun, 8:30 pm
