Matthew 11:7-10

7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. 9 Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written:“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ - Matthew 11:7-10

Dear Jesus,

Oh how you wanted to define who John the Baptist was!  You were not worried about his own sense of value.  But rather, you wanted to make sure that everyone knew he was God's man preaching an unrelenting message.  You wanted them to see him as the fulfillment of Scripture.  Isaiah and Malachi both talked about him.  He was your messenger preparing your people to find you.  It had all been foretold.  People just needed to realize it.  It's grace that made you so careful to define John and his ministry.  I feel stronger in faith knowing that John the Baptist and his ministry were foretold just as you were.  Thank you for prophesying about John and then for creating and sustaining him so that all people could be saved by you.  Help me to speak about you with more confidence because I know more about John's ministry and its place in your heart. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Jesus needed John the Baptist to help him save us.  Now he needs us to help him save others.  

Additional Reading: Matthew 3 and 28:18-20