He wasn’t your usual preacher. This man had taken a vow at the beginning of his life, to serve God. He would separate himself from society – not indulge in things of the world – live alone as a hermit for many years as he prepared for his ministry. During that time, he never cut his hair. He ate what was available to him in the desert – mostly bugs and the fruit of the honey bee and his clothing would be made out of animal skins.
How would you receive a man like this if he came to your church today? He’s dressed in rough, leather clothing. His hair is long and matted. His countenance weathered and lined. His skin darkened by the sun. It was obvious he hasn’t bathed in some time. He’s boisterous – condemning – accusing and his words pierce the heart. Would you welcome him with open arms?
This man comes from a long line of religious people. His parents are in their latter years of living, yet even though they had given up on having children, they were blessed with this child. As a boy, he studied the scriptures and grew strong in spirit. His voice reaches crowds of thousands.
His references include a lifetime of service. He does not have a bed to lay his head on, but many are entranced and inspired by his words. They came in droves to hear him. His sermons are filled with fire and brimstone – things most people don’t like to hear about, yet he offers a solution to man’s sinful ways. He is preparing the way for the One who will come after him.
So here we have it. A man who looks as if he’s homeless. He’s dirty, sweaty, uncouth, and loud. His resume is filled with a history of condemning sermons. He draws great crowds. He’s charismatic. He baptizes everyone who believe his words of the coming redemption of God. He changes lives. He touches all levels of society. Would you hire him?
To most, the forerunner of Christ seems like a real nut case. Kind of like the guy on the street, parading around with a sign that urges repentance. His appearance leaves a lot to be desired. He called people to realize their sin and come to repentance, and ended his sermons with the promise of salvation. We all need to know that we’re sinners, so we can understand the depth of God’s love for us. When the Savior appeared before him, he knew at once that he was facing God’s own Son.
When Jesus was then baptized by John, he had no need for cleansing. He was sinless. Still he would carry the sins of the world to the cross and through this washing, he was demonstrating the sacrifice he would make for all of us.
atimetoshare.me 
Beautiful and well said.
“To most, the forerunner of Christ seems like a real nut case.”
Chuckling here, but that sounds like my guy, a match made in heaven. I’d certainly follow him down to the river…:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought you might. lol
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Vincent 😌
LikeLike
You’re very welcome Kathy 🌷🙌
LikeLiked by 1 person
there was a book series out a few years back…The Joshua books—it was a take on what if Jesus had come back today in modern times—roaming about a bit of a migrant worker fellow doing carpentry odd jobs here and there…but wherever he went…miraculous things happened in the lives of those he was around.
It was interesting in the fact of how he was “accepted” or taken in by those he encountered—encountered we know for a reason as there was a Divine plan…but it made me think—How would I react to some sort of kind mild-mannered fellow showing up to offer a bit of a hand when it appeared I needed one…would I be accepting, cautious or curious?
Would I, should I see a John, run the other way thinking he was off his rocker.
I think the same when I recall the “entertaining angels” verse.
That due to my smugness or arrogance or wariness, lost out on blessings…
Lots of good stuff to think about Kathy—thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Now wouldn’t that make a nifty post. Write it❤️
LikeLiked by 2 people
Makes a person think doesn’t it? I would love to say I wouldn’t judge on appearances but I probably would in all honesty.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think I would also 😳
LikeLike
John was a really special case, wasn’t he? I mean, he was like an eccentric rock star, drawing huge crowds and even his own disciples. Yet, he understood exactly what his role was, and was willing to step aside when his time was done for. He is himself a good example for us to follow.
LikeLike
So true, Wally. He was a rock star in his own right. He recognized the Savior before either of them was born. It was natural for him to know Jesus when he actually saw him. Thanks for your additional thoughts on this.
LikeLike
Well it was an easy comment as I just wrote on him a week or so ago. We seem to do that often
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know, right? I think our minds are often directed by the Spirit to expound on certain of the same things. Plus great minds often work alike – with God’s help.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love it! Our pastor recently preached on John the Baptist. What an incredible example of true humility he was! ❤ ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
And yet so charismatic. He must’ve been quite the preacher❤️
LikeLike