After these things, Jesus came with his disciples into the
land of Judea, staying with them, and baptizing. John, who had not yet been
thrown into prison, was also baptizing in that area because of the ample water.
There arose a question on the part of John’s disciples with
some Jews about purification. They brought their question to John, and also a complaint:
“Rabbi, the one you told us about who was with you beyond the Jordan is baptizing,
and everyone is coming to him.”
John answered, “People can receive nothing, unless it has
been given them from heaven. You yourselves testify that I said, ‘I am not the
Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before him.’ The one who welcomes the bride is
the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him,
rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. This is my joy, and it is now
made full.
He must increase, but I must decrease. He who comes from above
is above all. Anyone from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks of the
earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. He speaks of what he has seen and
heard, and no one receives his witness. Anyone who has received his witness,
though, verifies the truthfulness of God. The one God has sent speaks the words
of God because God gives him the Spirit without measure. The Father loves the
Son, and has given all things into his hand. Those who believe in the Son have
eternal life, but those who disobey the Son won’t see life because the wrath of
God remains on them.”
Reflections
John was preaching a baptism of
repentance to those whose lives were headed in the wrong direction. His
disciples still didn’t get it. They were jealous of the attention Jesus
received, while John delighted in it. Do you rejoice in the success of others
or find yourself envious? Has jealousy ever been a problem in your
relationships?
Prayer:
Keep me focused on the good life you have given me, Lord, and not on that of
others.
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