Encounter: John the Baptist

Scripture: Luke 3:2-3, 15-16, 21-22 NLT

… At this time a message from God came to John son of Zechariah, who was living in the wilderness. Then John went from place to place on both sides of the Jordan River, preaching that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven

… Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah. John answered their questions by saying, “I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”

… One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

The phrase, “I’m not worthy” resonates so deeply in my soul. To think John the Baptist, one who was born and raised to make way for the coming of the Lord’s ministry, held this view of himself, gives new meaning to humbleness. As I am now a representative of Jesus, tasked with making him known and leading others to baptism, help me feel the gravity and urgency of this calling while relying on the Holy Spirit within me.

In your dearly loved Son’s name,

Amen.

Read all of 40 Days of Prayer at easter.crossings.church.