He is the one

​12/18/20
Today's devotion for today is based on John 1:26,27: "I baptize with water," John replied, "but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie."
With these words, John the Baptist shows us that he does not mind playing second fiddle to the coming Messiah. In fact, he knew it was his divinely-given role in life to point ahead to the one who was coming after him. When he grew up and started preaching and started to gain a bit of a following, even then, John remembered that it wasn't about him; it was about Jesus. "The one who comes after me," John says, "He is the one you're looking for, for he is the star of this show.
What an example for us to imitate! What a blessing to play "second fiddle" to Jesus! It's the purpose of our lives as well. Aware of our mountain of sins, aware of our spectacular failures in obedience, we echo John's words, "I am not worthy." But Jesus took our unworthiness to the cross. And now, in joyful thanks, our goal each day is to give Jesus glory. It's not about us. It's all about Jesus.
Please join me in praying the prayer for today: Lord and King, forgive me for those times when I am overcome by pride, arrogance, or selfish ambition. Lead me to follow John's example of humility and to glorify you all my life. Amen.