Mark 1:6-8
A “he said/she said” about whether to go hear John:
Him:
He wears camel hide and leather, lives in the desert, and is building a following.
Her:
A fan club for a sweat penitence clothing line?
Him:
No, he’s not spreading a fashion statement. He’s like a prophet of old.
Her:
We haven’t had a genuine one in centuries. I bet they’re saying he’s the new Elijah.
Him:
This guy only eats bugs and honey. It’s a protest diet, like vegan but holier.
Her:
He follows extreme Levitical dietary laws. I bet there’ll be a cookbook out soon: honeyed locust with cinnamon, salted caramel locust, and baklava with roasted insect bits.
Him:
Nothing will make people give up their meat and three. They go because he baptizes synagogue-goers.
Her:
Seriously? Why? I thought only Gentiles needed baptism.
Him:
He’s baptizing those who express sorrow over sin and commit to lead holy lives.
Her:
Huh. Baptism as a resolution benchmark. I bet there’s a book in that too. People really think he’s a guru?
Him:
He says he’s not the real deal, but the Messiah will come soon to baptize with the Spirit. Want to go hear him talk about repentance in the desert?
Her:
Absolutely not, but there’s no way I’m going to let you go alone.
Him:
Pick you up at 8 am. Wear your cute sandals.
Consider
Would you vote to go or stay home? Why?
Pray
God, we discount what we find weird. Give us wisdom to discern when you are doing a new thing in a new way. Amen.