‘John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”‘ (Luke 3:16 ESV).
John the Baptist was the forerunner of Christ and the herald who prepared the way for the coming King. When the crowds questioned whether he might be the long awaited Christ, he explained that his baptism was one of water, while the One who would come after him was far greater. For His baptism would be with the Holy Spirit and fire. John declared himself unworthy even to perform the lowest task of a servant, untying the sandals of this One to come.
When Jesus came to John to be baptized, John exclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God” (John 1:29; 34). When John’s disciples came to him later, concerned that many were leaving him to follow Jesus, John replied, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). John understood his purpose. It was to be the preparer of the way, the herald for King Jesus.
John’s life and ministry pointed others to Jesus, not to himself. He understood his life’s purpose. Are we using our words, actions, and attitudes to exalt Jesus? Do we live as if He is truly our Lord and King?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit today. Set our hearts aflame for proclaiming Your Son, Jesus in all that we say and do. We want to be like John, saying “I must decrease and He must increase.” Less of me and more of Jesus! In His name we pray, amen.