Flimsy Reed or Sturdy Tree?

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By Rachelle Bontreger, 20, Indiana, USA

Though hated by the leaders of his country and mocked by many, John the Baptist definitely led a remarkable life. He preached in the desert, wore clothes made of camel hair, and ate locusts—which was weird even in Bible times. His teachings are contrary to what the religious leaders preached. The leaders emphasized outward appearances, while he stressed the importance of inward change—to repent of sins and turn to God.

While many of us struggle with the desire to fit in, John stood out as a man who didn’t care what society said. Many people thought he was crazy and even wanted him dead.

In Matthew 10:7, Jesus asked the crowd about their opinion of John the Baptist. He said, “What kind of man did you go into the wilderness to see? Was he a weak reed, swayed by every breath of wind?” (NLT) One could probably see many reeds in the desert where John preached, but this preacher was definitely not like those weak reeds. John didn’t change his message to accommodate his listeners nor the changing winds of popular opinions. In fact, Jesus gave a glowing commendation of this prophet. He said, “I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist” (v.11).

Not being a crowd-pleaser doesn’t mean John was alone. He had a close group of followers and his cousin Jesus. It does mean, however, that John was brave. God gave him the strength to help prepare the world for a revolution of Christ-like proportions. Rather than being like a reed, John was more like a large, sturdy tree. Psalm 1:1-3 explains that a person who meditates on the Word of God is like a tree next to a stream. People like this are rooted in God’s Word and they find their nourishment and strength from it.

Following Jesus doesn’t always mean being as controversial as John, but it definitely means being rooted in God’s Word. When the winds of change come, we will not be swayed. For God’s Word provides the perspective to view the changing circumstances.

Personally, I have always struggled with making God’s Word a priority in my daily life. It’s really easy for me to forget to spend time with God in His Word. Looking at John’s life though, I know that if I desire to glorify Him with my life, then I must be rooted in His Word.

May God teach us the patience and self-discipline to make His Word our life’s substance and foundation so that we may be a sturdy tree in the face of swaying strong winds.