John 3:27 To this John replied, "A person can receive only what is given them from heaven."
John had been called to prepare the way for the Messiah. He had gained quite a following, and had ticked off quite a few as well. I imagine John as loving what he was called to do, a real outdoors kinda guy, full of fire and passion for God. Now things were changing. People were going over to listen to and follow Jesus. John understood this. He understood that this is why he came. He understood that God was in charge. Maybe most importantly, John knew he was not the Messiah.
The Scripture goes on to say that John was even full of joy.
What? How could he be? Didn't he fear the unemployment line? His flock was leaving him. What did his future hold? (I doubt he really understood the full impact of what his future held at this point.)
I believe John understood that God was in control. I think he understood that we get what God gives us, and therefore we live in the moment, and leave the future to God. He understood that it was Jesus who gets the glory.
I need to understand this.
3 comments:
Thanks - 'prepare the way' - 'make a straight path' and John the Baptists story always fills me with awe. I went to a service on Sunday in a venue and situation I could only of dreamed of and never would have believed.... and what did the preacher preach on? Exactly this passage and then I read it here.... I guess I mainly want to say 'thank you' as often you write on things God has been nudging me on and i find that an encouragement.
You are welcome. I find your writings an encouragement as well. Funny how we can be part of a church of any size and still feel alone at times.
John the Baptist was an amazing guy. At the beginning he said that Jesus must increase and I decrease. At the end he had to accept the fact that Jesus would not deliver him from Herod, prison and death. His life inspires me.
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