July 02, 2019

BIBLE READING: Luke 3

21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee am I well pleased.

In this chapter, we are introduced to John the Baptist. Not your common preacher, as described in other passages. He dressed in camel skin, ate locus and wild honey, and lived in the wilderness. He was a very driven and bold preacher, but had a specific calling, preparing the way for Christ. John the Baptist was Jesus’ cousin, and was prophesied about in Isaiah to tell people that Christ was coming. Half-way though the chapter, we see a transition in ministry. John prepared the people, so Jesus could be center stage. I see two ways John had a selfless ministry.
First, John remembered His purpose or calling. Over time John had built up quite the following, but when Jesus showed up, he pointed to Him as the Messiah. John did not let his ministry get ahead of his purpose. His purpose was to prepare and point to Christ. He did his part, so Jesus could start His ministry. John fulfilled his calling, not for himself, but to magnify Christ.
Second, John remembered who he was doing his ministry for. What was the whole purpose? Christ could be exalted! John was telling the multitude their problem, but it could only be answered by one solution, Jesus! Now by verse 21, Christ has center stage. Then we see the trinity before the people after Jesus was baptized. John could have been jealous, but he did not let prideful intentions get in the way of the center focus.
I found this very challenging. Remembering that God has a calling for each of us, and to faithfully serve Him every day. Why do we do this? Not for our own gain, but so Christ can have center stage in our lives!

David Fulp II
Children’s Pastor