Mark 6:14-29

John the Baptist is beheaded. The one who said, "prepare the way of the Lord"--who baptized Jesus as he began his ministry. The one who baptized those who wanted to turn from their sins. The one who pointed the way to Jesus.

This must have been a sorrowful time for Jesus and his followers--many of his followers had first followed John. To die in such a way--by the hands of a wicked and cowardly king who was afraid to break an oath in front of his dinner guests, but instead groveled to the wishes of Herodias and her daughter.

John lived a life faithful to God. He completed his mission proclaiming his message even when it led to death. Jesus said this of John in Matthew 11:10-12: This is the one about whom it is written: " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.'^[3] I tell you the truth: Among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it."

John paved the way. We can pave the way for others, leading them to the Lord, embracing the courage of John, given to us by the power of the Holy Spirit.

- posted by Suzi @ 7:42 AM