FIX THAT ROAD

Luke 3:1-16

The rough ways shall be made smooth.

Bad roads were getting worse in a Detroit suburb. Commuters let their local government officials know they wanted action, not more talk about the road fixed and the potholes filled. They didn’t want to risk losing a tailpipe or a tire every time they ventured onto Lakeshore Drive. Though one of the most scenic drives in the city, it had become what one Detroiter called a "kidney-crunching, teeth-chattering, tire-popping experience that even bus drivers dreaded." Luke 3 tells of another kind of rough road—"the way of the Lord"—that needed repair, not talk. In John the Baptist’s day this "road" was in bad shape, for the moral and spiritual condition of the nation of the Israel had deteriorated. John made it clear that if the people were going to be ready for the Messiah they had to "prepare the way" by getting rid of the road hazards of selfishness, greed, and violence. He challenged his hearers to prove their faith by turning from their sins in genuine repentance.

Although John's message was directed to Israel, every Christian can profit from it. Unconfessed sins are the potholes of the Christian journey. To repair the road, we need only repent.

Once you've believed and salvation received your duty should then become clear: Wrongs must be righted, if this can be done-- to show to the world you're sincere!