31 The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. 32 He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. 33 Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. 34 For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. 35 The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.
These verses are John the Baptist’s response to being asked about Jesus. John explains that he was sent ahead of the Messiah to prepare the way. John is not threatened by Jesus. He knows that his mission has been accomplished and that Jesus brings the true word of God from heaven.
Many of us like to be in control of our lives. We may want to feel important and maybe recognized for our efforts. John must have known from the very beginning that his calling was to be the messenger for the coming Messiah. He wasn’t gathering a flock of believers in him, he was preparing the way to Christ.
May we find our true calling in whatever capacity God has created us to do.
Our prayer is from Psalm 80:19:
Restore us, LORD God Almighty.
make your face shine on us,
that we may be saved. Amen
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Barry Dougherty
barryd72@aol.com
Prayer Concern - For those struggling during the Christmas season.
Additional readings - 2 Samuel 7: 23-29 and Psalm 80: 1-7, 17-19
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Living Lord Lutheran Church
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