READING: Leviticus 14:33-16:34, Mark 1:1-20
I have often thought about whether John the Baptist might have been tempted with pride. I readily admit my fallen nature, but I think I would have been seriously tempted with arrogance if all the following marked my life:
- My birth was supernatural, granted to aged parents and announced by an angel (Luke 1:10-20).
- People from all over Jerusalem and Judea came to hear me preach (Mark 1:5).
- They not only came to hear me, but they also responded to my message (Matthew 3:5).
- I baptized Jesus (Mark 1:9).
- I preached a hard word to religious leaders of the day, calling all to repentance (Matthew 3:7-12, Luke 3:7-14)
- People thought I was the Messiah (Luke 3:15).
- Even Jesus said I was a great prophet (Matthew 11:7-15).
Even with all of these realities in front of him, though, John knew his position: “One who is more powerful than I am is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals” (Mark 1:7).
I can only pray that I would be as humble. That’s the way disciples are supposed to live.
PRAYER: “Jesus, remind me every day that the story is not about me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Leviticus 17-19, Mark 1:21-45