In the wilderness, a voice was heard. This was not just any voice. It was a voice that echoed with the promise of something greater, something more powerful than anything the world had ever known. This voice belonged to John the Baptist. A man who was not afraid to stand alone in the wilderness and proclaim the coming of the Messiah for all. He was preparing the way for the Lord, making straight paths for Him. This was a message of hope, a message of salvation.
He was also preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. This was not just a physical preparation. It was a spiritual preparation, a preparation of the heart.
John’s message was about humility, when he said, “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worth to stoop down and untie.” He knew he was not the main event. He was just the opening act. The main event was coming, the Messiah.
Further, John’s message was about the Holy Spirit. “I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” This was a promise of something greater, something more powerful than anything the world had ever known.
The Holy Spirit is the one who empowers us, guide us, and transforms us. The Holy Spirit is the one who makes the hope of Salvation a reality in our lives.
In this New Year may the Holy Spirit embody us and guide us to seek a closer relationship with our Heavenly Father, who welcomes us always with his outstretched arms of love for all.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
