Luke Chapters 3 & 4

Chapter 3 - John the Baptist Prepares the Way & The Baptism and Family Tree of Jesus

I wonder what John the Baptist would look like today? Would he wear blue jeans, a simple t-shirt and sandals?  Or, would he be a bit more eccentric looking?  Perhaps wild hair that was a bit long, wearing cargo shorts, a tank top and flip flops?  Then again, since he'd be living in the desert and traveling to various communities, maybe he'd be wearing those all terrain sneakers with his ensemble?

More importantly, what would his message be to us today?  We've had the benefit of having a Bible to read, churches to attend, pastors to help us learn the word, and over 2,000 years of trial and error in sharing Jesus and his light.  Would he be impressed with how far we've come, or, would he wonder what we've been doing with our time?

In letting my mind wander, ponder and stew, I think that John would be impressed with how much we have been able to accomplish.  Missionaries to foreign lands, radio and TV stations that broadcast the Good News 24/7 and of course the various charities and good works done in Jesus's name.  At the same time though, I think his perspective on things would show me other areas where I could do a better job. Have I stepped outside of my comfort zone and shared the story of Jesus with someone?  Have I been patient with my son?  Have I left my corner of the world a bit cleaner, brighter and happier?

The rest of Chapter 3 covers the Baptism and family tree of Jesus.  Luke was a Gentile, maybe the only Gentile  author in the New Testament.  He traces Jesus' family tree back not just to Abraham, but all the way back to Adam.  In a way letting us know that Jesus and his message was for everyone. 

The baptism of course was spectacular.  Heaven opened and God called out "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.  I believe that still holds true today for us.  What a feeling to know that when we give our lives to God, we have our own cheering section saying "You are my son/daughter!  I love you and I am so happy to be your Father.:

Chapter 4 - Temptation, Rejection, Exorcism and Healing 

This chapter leads me to believe that Luke would have been an screenplay writer.  We have drama, conflict, excitement and of course medical cases that would leave today's medical field absolutely flabbergasted.  And the subject matter has something for everyone. Imagine the special effects that could be used as the devil is tempting Jesus. Combine Star Wars, The Matrix and Ghostbusters and you'd have a pretty good mix for the guys.  High School kids could easily identify with Jesus when he returns to his home town and is deemed not special enough to hang out at THE table at lunch time. When Jesus casts out demons, the scene could be eerily familiar the Exorcist and Poltergeist movies.  Women would weep openly as Jesus heal their loved ones - quicker than Dr. House can on TV.