Fulfilled?

Read: Matthew 3:13-17

What does it mean to be fulfilled?  Listen to this definition. 

To make full, to fill up, to cause to abound, to supply liberally.

To render full, to complete.

To fill to the top so that nothing shall be wanting to full measure; fill to the brim.

To make complete in every particular way, to render perfect.

To carry through to the end, to accomplish.

To carry into effect, bring to realization.

            Matters of duty, to perform or execute.

            Sayings, promises, prophecies, to bring to pass, to ratify, accomplish.

            To cause God’s will to be obeyed as it should be,

and God’s promises to receive fulfillment.

As we bring another year to a close, would you describe yourself as feeling fulfilled according to this definition? 

John the Baptist’s duty to fulfill was to prepare the way for the Lord.  He was calling people to take a moral inventory of their lives, to see how they measured up.  He was called to shake people out of their complacency and help them see their need for change. 

“Repent and be baptized” was his primary call to action. 

Then Jesus arrives and asks John to baptize Him.  John refused.  Jesus DID NOT need repentance.  He did not need to be washed clean.  John realized who Jesus was, and he did not feel worthy to baptize Jesus. 

Yet Jesus said He must do this to FULFILL ALL righteousness.  He must identify with all of us who don’t measure up, who have missed the mark, who are so far from perfect, so that HE could fulfill His Father’s will. 

Jesus came to fully execute His duty, to bring to pass, to ratify, to accomplish ALL the Father had planned from the beginning of time. 

He became sin who knew no sin, that we might become His righteousness. 

God the Father said that day, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.”

On the cross, Jesus’ traded places with us, taking what we deserve and giving us what He deserves. 

When we realize how far we have fallen short, and cling to the cross, trusting Jesus, God the Father looks down on me and you and says, “This is my beloved child, whom I love, with you I am well pleased.” 

Thank You Lord Jesus for keeping Your focus on Your mission, to fulfill all righteousness.  Thank You that You traded it all for my sins!  Thank you for the gift of Your righteousness.  Fill me with the Holy Spirit's power to walk as Your beloved Child in this world until You finally welcome me home!