Most of us are acquainted with the first and second chapters of the book of Luke. We hear much about them, especially this time of the year. The account of Jesus’ miraculous conception and birth is recorded in these chapters. I also love to read the story of his cousin John. His conception, too, was miraculous. God works in such mighty ways!
At the end of Luke 2, after John is born, his father Zacharias gives a prophecy, and worships God. Here is this passage:
And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Luke 1:76-80
It’s a beautiful passage of scripture, but I am particularly focused on two verses describing his son John, and his role as a follower of Christ, and one whose job it is to lead others in the way to Him!
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
Luke 1:77
Isn’t this our job as Christians? We have been commanded by scripture to go, and to tell others! We like to hold John the Baptist in such a high regard, thinking he has such an awesome responsibility. But he was just a man, with a special mission. As are we! We are followers of God, with that same mission – to prepare others’ hearts for Christ. To tell about Him! And to point other people to the one who can change their lives.
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
Luke 1:79
John’s mission was great. His responsibility was one he took seriously, and it even led to his death later in life. But he never stopped telling others about Christ. He knew where they could find peace, and he told people about that peace. He knew others were in a valley, looking for a way out, and he was a light to those people, leading them to a knowledge of Jesus.
Have you diligently done this job the Lord has also called you to do?
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Acts 1:8
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:19-20
