John the Baptist

Remember your first IG post?

Sharing is not the end of the experience
IG is never just about sharing
Deep down in our hearts, we want to be liked and followed.
We want to be someone’s focus, even if it is just five seconds
Perhaps some of us are like the modern Narcissus from the Greek mythology
But as followers of Jesus, are we supposed to agree with Narcissism?
Besides trying our best to get people’s attention to ourselves, is there something more in following Jesus?

Spotlights and Signposts

Although sidekicks are not at the centre of the story, they have a special role to play
Sidekicks are like spotlights which shine on the heroes
Sidekicks are good signposts, pointing the way, and giving out information of what is ahead.
What if we all become spotlights or signposts to Jesus?
Instead of drawing people’s attention to ourselves, we turn their attention to Jesus
What might a life like this look like?

John the Baptist

a perfect example of what a good spotlight or signpost would look like
When he was questioned about his identity, he confessed that “I am not the Christ” (John 1:20)
He only claimed to be “the voice of one crying out in the wilderness” (John 1:23)
As a sidekick, he was preparing the road for the true hero to come.
John repeatedly introduced Jesus to the world.
John repeatedly humbled himself and exalted Jesus as the Messiah.
Like a road sign, John took every opportunity to lead people to Jesus.
Like a spotlight, John took every opportunity to point people to the real hero.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
John was content in his role as a sidekick, as a spotlight, as a signpost.
John understood his calling and identity in relation to Jesus.
By becoming a spotlight and a signpost, John became a humble and loyal messenger - pointing people to Jesus.