Our scripture this morning is John 3:31-36.
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. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.
With these words John the Baptist teaches about the divine nature of Jesus and the wonder of His coming to be with us. He tells us of the eternal connection between God the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit, and how our acceptance of Jesus as Lord is the key to salvation. This is God’s promise that “whoever believes in the Son has eternal life” (v. 36).
John was born to be the herald of Christ, and he told all who would listen “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, Make straight the way for the Lord” (John 1:23). He called people to a baptism of repentance that they might be ready for the teaching Jesus would bring. John’s message and his action show his faith that Jesus is indeed the Messiah.
John shares the same truth that Jesus teaches later, that no one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). This is our invitation to be part of God’s plan, that through our repentance we can be forgiven and by faith we can be God’s messengers in the world. There is work for us in His kingdom!
Loving Lord, we are grateful for the gift of Your Son. Help us to turn from evil and follow our Savior that we may be part of Your eternal plan. Amen.