Behold!

Behold!

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. John 1:29 KJV

The Context and Charge:

John the Baptist was a prophet in his own right. A lot was said about his birth and mission on earth, but no one could have imagined the impact he would make in the short time he lived. As far back as Isaiah and Malachi, words were foretold of one who will come and prepare the way for the Lord, turning the hearts of men back to the Lord. If it were other men, there could be pride. If it were other men, there would be feelings of importance and superiority. For John, it was first and foremost about the One he was sent to proclaim. He was not about popularity, power, possessons, position or presentation, but about proclaiming the Presence of the Lamb of God. 

What is in it for me today? Am I doing whatever it is I am doing for gain or worldly pleasure? Am I seeking to be known, recognized or celebrated? Am I after the praise and applause of men, or can I consistently point men to the God who reigns and rules in my heart? John was popular, yet it was not about his charisma or dress sense; he wore clothes made of animal skin, and ate locusts and wild honey, yet successful men went to him in the desert. A man with God's message will always command an audience. It could be one or a million, but the man with God's message is not distracted by numbers or comments, but is focused on divine leading, inspiration and impact. 

The Contention and Conclusion:

What has been laid upon my heart and hands to deal with? How do I see the work to be done? Can I daily point men in the direction of the One I work for, if it is indeed God? John was working, and he had disciples too. He was leading men back to God, preaching repentance from sin and baptising men in the Jordan, but when the Lamb of God, the gift that was given to take away the sin of the world came toward him, John knew this was the crowning glory of his life and ministry. He made Jesus known, so that all who were there would know Jesus. In fact, the bible records that his own disciples followed Jesus. 

There was no bitterness or envy, or a contest for recognition; just pure joy that he was found worthy to draw the hearts of men back to Jesus. He knew who Jesus was and he was proud to make Him known. Do I know this Jesus? Do I make him known in my conduct, conversation and the company that I keep?  Is His imprint visible upon my life's actions, decisions and direction? The identity of Jesus was clear to John; he had no doubt about who was coming toward him. As it was then, so is it now. Jesus seeks to come to me, to change who I am into what He wants. Would I let him have his way? God's time of favour is here.