Mark 1:6-8 (New International Version)"And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: 'After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.'"
I was reading through Mark and came across these verses and they made me think about how John the Baptist was freed up from everyday burdens that tend to entangle us.
- His clothing is simple--Not that we all need to reduce our closets to one outfit, but I have mentioned before that I can waste 20-30 minutes each day trying to figure out what to wear. John kept is simple. He wasn't concerned if people had seen his outfit before or sit staring at his closet wondering what would impress others.
- His meals are simple--Sometimes we eat what we want, not what we have, or what we can afford. Yes, we live in American where we can eat anything we want at any time we want, but really, feeding our impulses can cost us at least $400 a month in eating out, instead of settling for the PB & J or spaghetti that is in my cupboard. Plus, at least its better than bugs.
- His lifestyle is simple--No car payment, no house payment, no credit cards. He lives with what is within his means. Revolutionary.
- His message is simple--Jesus is coming. John isn't busy explaining all the intricacies of doctrine and theology. His faith revolves around the promises of God, and his focus is just a Savior.
Of course, as my friend Sam would point out, John the Baptist did end up beheaded, but I think I can learn lessons from how he lived his life.
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