John 1:29-34

In this reading, John the Baptist has been baptizing people in the River Jordan, following the messages that he received from God, in the purification phase before the start of Jesus’ ministry.  This is true faith: to hear and to believe what God tells you, and then to act on it.  It was somewhat easier in those days without digital media distracting people all the time.

John has heard messages from God, and now he is going along baptizing, when suddenly he sees Jesus, the one he has been preparing for.  He exclaims, “This is the lamb that takes away the sin of the world.  This is the one I spoke of.”  He explains that although Jesus comes after him in temporal time, in theological time, Jesus comes before him.  He also explains, “I did not know him myself, and yet it was to reveal him to Israel that I came baptizing with water.”  All that God told John the Baptist in advance, and that he acted on, is now coming to pass in that moment.  John explains this further when he says, “I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.”  This is as we’ve been saying here.

John testifies further, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him.  I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

How great is John that he hears so clearly the messages of God, and sees so clearly the activity of the Holy Spirit, even with his spiritual eyes. How favored was John the Baptist to be given this role, to be the one to recognize and baptize Jesus. He is a model for the rest of us human beings.  Can we listen carefully for how God is speaking to us each day? In our own small way, we can.  And that small way is a great way, to listen and be guided in our daily lives.  The words God whispers to us are light and gentle, like a dove.

Personal: We know this listening and writing requires great exertion from you.  Now go rest. Amen.