“God sent a man, John the Baptist, to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light.” (John 1:6-8 NLT)
John the Baptist somehow inherently understood that he was a minor character in his own story. He set out, seemingly from conception, with this clearly defined supporting role. He was the forerunner; the reflector of the Light that was to come. He lived out this role even in utero; his unseen body had lept with joy at the presence of the Messiah in a nearby womb.
“At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Luke 1:41 NLT)
John managed to keep his life focused on Christ. From cradle to early grave; he lived in surrender to the greater story. Even when the end is near, when he felt the hot breath of Herod on his neck; he checked in with Jesus, just to be sure he had backed the right man, to know his minor role was still supportive in nature.
“When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”
(Luke 7:20 NLT)
Kudos to John for clarification, for making certain his story was still in keeping with the main character’s objective. John maintained right perspective; this life, this world, this epic saga still unfolding is not about us. It’s always about Jesus.
Why do I struggle with this mindset? It seems like I am always swelling with self, stealing center stage from the One who came to save. I read John’s few passages of scripture and he painstakingly corrects me.
“Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am – so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals.”
(Luke 3:16 NLT)
John the Baptist was more than willing to let the life and message of Jesus Christ eclipse him entirely. May we be willing, also.
Lord, please help us find and keep John the Baptist’s Kingdom perspective. Here is a man who lived and died surrendered, totally satisfied to be a small part in a much grander Story. Let us grab on to that truth today. This epic is about YOU, not us. Shrink us down to proper size as we come closer to You, the One who’s sandals we are unworthy to tie. Amen.