Tuesday, Day 10 of Advent

Luke 7:28-35 (CEB)
So many are quick to blame and defend when it comes to their own selves. This morning, I had to drive to a neighboring county to appear in court for a speeding ticket. As I sat in the hall with the other offenders, the clerk who was checking us in kept asking if the person wanted to come before the judge, or just pay the fine. Person after person kept saying, I want to see the judge.
I didn't. I knew I did something wrong. I was caught going too fast. In fact, the arresting officer reduced my speed that he clocked so I wouldn't get points on my driver's license which I thought was nice and decent of him. So, I just wanted to pay my fine and go on with my day.
I sat next to several people in the hall that did not feel the same way. Typical, they kept muttering under their breath, of the government, wanting money that they can spend on themselves. One man told me that if you go before the judge, then she might reduce the amount you have to pay if you tell her your story. Another railed about how it was illegal to ask him to pay any money without his accuser (the arresting officer) present. Why don't we just fess up? That is what John the Baptist told us to do. Just be honest about what you did. God, the ultimate judge wants you to live full and healthy lives, but you can't unless you are honest with him about who you are.
The Pharisees are quick to tell them why they shouldn't have to be baptized or why they are justified in other ways. Just like others are quick to blame the government and judge for making them pay their fine.
So I walked in, paid my fine, and chatted with the clerks, and as I left that hallway with my fellow transgressors, I said a short prayer for them that maybe their stubborn hearts can be changed. Maybe Jesus can melt those hearts to allow grace and repentance to come in. Maybe someone can let them know that others aren't out to get them, but that God just wants us to be honest. And to know that we are all in this together.