"It is written in Isaiah the prophet: 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way' – 'a voice of one calling in the desert, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'"
(Mark 1:2-3)

Mark 1:1-8
In Roman times, a messenger was sent ahead to herald the arrival of an important person or event. For the coming of Israel’s Messiah, John the Baptist was divinely appointed to proclaim the One who would bring forgiveness of sins. John was Jesus’ cousin, only six months older, and strategically placed to be the forerunner of God’s kingdom.


What an impression John must have made on the multitudes that followed him, this odd man living in the desert, subsisting on grasshoppers and honey, striding about in his camel hair tunic, proclaiming with authority and conviction the coming Savior! John’s run-ins with the hypocritical religious rulers of his day demonstrate his unwillingness to let anything or anyone deter him from his calling. His mission was clear, his focus set, his goal and faith unwavering. And because of that, the path of repentance was laid for the start of Jesus’ ministry.


What has God called you to do? Ask Him to inspire in you an unswerving commitment… to discover and fulfill His purpose for your life.



Scripture Focus

Mark 1:1-8

Insight

Jesus' followers are privileged to share the good news that John the Baptist faithfully proclaimed long ago...Immanuel, God with us!

Bible In A Year

  • Daniel 3-4
  • Proverbs 6
  • Hebrews 7-8

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