Being Different

     It can be hard in life to be different from all those around you.  It can be quite lonely at times.  Even when you are a Christian around other Christians, you don't always find your place.  You may feel like something is wrong with you, but there isn't.  God made you the way you are so that you can endure your path that will probably look very different from everyone else.
     John the Baptist knew only too well what it meant to be different or weird.  He was Jesus' cousin and his was path clear from the beginning.   He taught people repentance and he too had been prophesied about by Isaiah.  He wore odd clothing made of hair from camels and a leather belt.  Can you imagine how itchy and uncomfortable that would be, but the goal was a simple life without too many personal needs.  He ate locust and wild honey, which would be preferable living out in the desert.  Add on the fact that he unapologetically called out sin even of the spiritual leaders.  You can see why he was not popular, but he was vital.  People sought him out, but not because they liked him.  They did it because he was a show: interesting, looney, a circus act maybe.
     He began the baptism ritual by submerging people into water in the name of repentance.  Jesus' baptism is filled with the Holy Spirit and puts fire unto His followers.  John always told people that he was not the Messiah and could not fill His shoes even if he wanted to try.  He did get to receive the honor of baptizing Jesus even though he wanted to be the one baptized.  That day was miraculous.  That day, John took a step back and let Jesus become the focal point.
     It is hard being different.  It is hard not to want to be recognized.  It is hard to always do what God ask of you.  It is easier to be liked, noticed, and respected.  Being different may never allow you to have any of those things, but you will have Jesus.  You will see and experience things that other people can not.

Matthew 3