“So they said to him [John the Baptist], “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
What stands out to me is John’s clarity of his calling or purpose in life. We see here and elsewhere that John was completely settled in his role as the forerunner to Jesus. He shows no jealousy that he was not the light, but called to bear witness of the light.
This reminds me of a frustration I have at weddings. Often, the groomsmen intend to prank the groom and intentionally or unintentionally draw attention to themselves. Thus, rather than honoring the bride and groom, whose day it is, the groomsmen become the focal point.
John is a great model of humility, a model I want to embrace. He knows his role and plays it well.
Father, help me to be comfortable in the roles that you place me in, regardless of the role. Help me never – even unintentionally – to take your place or anyone else’s. Amen.
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