In John 1, John the Baptist is speaking to a group of religious leaders about his own role and about the Messiah. The Messiah, he says, isn’t just on his way, but is already here. This is big news! The even bigger news is that those who should join John in heralding His coming don’t even know He’s there!

Listen:

“John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.””

‭‭John‬ ‭1:26-27‬ ‭ESV‬‬

John says, you see me and what I do, but I’m not the main course. I’m not the one you should be fixated on. Instead, look up, look to Him. He and I aren’t on the same level, so don’t look to me in ways you should be looking to Him.

But hear this, John knows He’s there. John, whose connection with God is obvious, is publicly, verbally committing to acknowledging His presence and imminence. But these religious leaders don’t have the first idea. They are hung up on John and have missed the Messiah. They see John’s works and are curious, probably cynical & maintaining a ‘safe’ distance from the goings on. They must evaluate first, form an educated opinion and then maybe they’ll speak into what’s going on.

And so John calls them out and simply, plainly states, ‘Yeah, but you don’t know Him.’ And the accusation sticks.

This is a reminder to keep our eyes open. To remain vigilant, aware and seeking. When we start presuming that we know it all, that we understand it all, that we have a grip on how things ‘should’ be done, that is a red-hot glaring signal to us that we have missed the point altogether and that we need to refocus on Jesus.

John’s heart of humility and his posture of open-handed servanthood are markers of willingness. They are hallmarks of a disciple. And we have to understand that our role is the same as John’s. We are not the light, but we point toward Him. We are not the Way, but we know His footsteps. We are not the hope, but we live in Him gladly. We are watchmen and women on the wall, calling out into the wild places and drawing people into His peace.

Be aware of your surroundings. Be humble in your approach. Be cautious when making assumptions. Be ready to share a good word. There is hope, and you do know Him. Live in His rhythms, walk in His grace. Be a voice in the wilderness today.