A lot of stories and characters don’t show up in every gospel. For instance, the magi are only in Matthew. Lazarus is only in John. The running young man is only in Mark. And Anna & Simeon are only in Luke. (These are just some examples.)

But John the Baptist is featured heavily and prominently in each and every gospel. It would be hard to overstate his role. In each gospel, he is the forerunner, preparing the way for Jesus’ entrance on the scene. But here in John’s gospel, John the Baptist is of a particularly definitive role - we will soon see him declare Jesus as the Lamb of God.

But before we see that, John the gospel writer (remember, John who wrote this gospel is different than John the Baptist) sets up some theological significance within John’s role.

And in John’s role, we might see some of our own - a call to testify to the light.

What does that mean to you - to testify to the light? There is plenty of darkness around and plenty of people of faith pointing out the darkness. But what is it to testify to the light?

John 1:6-14

A man named John was sent from God. He came as a witness to testify concerning the light, so that through him everyone would believe in the light. He himself wasn’t the light, but his mission was to testify concerning the light.

The true light that shines on all people was coming into the world. The light was in the world, and the world came into being through the light, but the world didn’t recognize the light. The light came to his own people, and his own people didn’t welcome him. But those who did welcome him, those who believed in his name, he authorized to become God’s children, born not from blood nor from human desire or passion, but born from God. The Word became flesh and made his home among us.
We have seen his glory, glory like that of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

Psalm 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation. Should I fear anyone? The Lord is a fortress protecting my life. Should I be frightened of anything?

Prayer

God,

Thank you for yet another new day. I’m currently sick at the moment (stupid Covid…). When I’m sick, I so often wonder if I take life for granted. All this coughing and body/headache and fatigue - it sure is a reminder to me that when I’m not sick, I have it pretty good. So thank you for health, God.

I suppose that’s the light and goodness I want to remember for this day, Lord. It’s the first thing you give us - the breath of life. Help me to not take it for granted. Help me to use it well. (After I get better, of course.)

By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.

John the Baptist: Preparer of the Way