The Daily Devotional
Friday, July 11, 2025
Preparing the Way
He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. (John 1:7-8)
Introduction
John the Baptist was no ordinary prophet. From before his birth, he was filled with the Holy Spirit and appointed to prepare the hearts of God’s people for the coming of the Messiah. He lived simply, spoke boldly, and pointed others not to himself, but to Jesus. Today’s verse reminds us that John’s entire purpose was to testify to the light—to prepare the way for Christ.
Reflection
Imagine a highway construction crew working before dawn. Their job is to level the road, remove obstacles, put up signs, and pave a path so drivers can travel safely. Most motorists don’t remember the names of those workers, but they benefit every time they drive on the road. John the Baptist was that spiritual roadworker—he wasn’t the destination, but the one clearing the way for the Lord.
John’s humility stands out. Though crowds gathered around him, he never claimed to be the source of light. He didn't try to build a following for his own sake. Instead, he consistently said, “I am not the one,” and pointed them to Jesus. In a world obsessed with self-promotion, John’s example is a counter-cultural call to faithful, humble service.
Application
Each of us, in our daily lives, is called to prepare the way for others to meet Jesus. Whether you're driving a school bus, working at a checkout counter, parenting young children, or caring for an aging spouse—your presence can reflect the light of Christ. You don’t need a pulpit. Like John, you just need to point others to the One who saves.
Ask yourself: Am I living in a way that testifies to the light? Do my words, my actions, and my choices reflect Jesus, or do they draw attention only to me?
Conclusion
John the Baptist reminds us that our highest calling is not to shine on our own, but to reflect and reveal the light of Christ. His voice cried out in the wilderness, and his legacy still echoes in every believer who lives with boldness and humility. In pointing others to Jesus, we find our true purpose.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the faithful witness of John the Baptist. Help me to be like him—bold in truth, humble in spirit, and always pointing others to You. When pride creeps in or fear holds me back, fill me with courage to reflect Your light. May my life prepare a way for others to know You more deeply. In Your holy name I pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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