(story is told throughout the Gospels)
John the Baptist was a prophet chosen by God to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus. He was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, born through a miracle after years of his parents’ prayers. Even before his birth, an angel announced that John would be filled with the Holy Spirit and would turn many hearts back to God. He lived in the wilderness, dressed in camel’s hair, and ate locusts and wild honey—a simple life devoted completely to his mission.
John preached a message of repentance, calling people to turn from their sins and prepare for the arrival of the Messiah. Crowds came from all over Judea to hear him speak by the Jordan River. Those who believed his message were baptized as a sign of their repentance. When people asked what they should do, John told them to live justly—sharing with others, treating people fairly, and being content with what they had.
One day, Jesus Himself came to John to be baptized. Though John felt unworthy, Jesus said it was necessary “to fulfill all righteousness.” As Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit descended like a dove, and a voice from heaven said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
John’s bold preaching also led to his arrest when he condemned King Herod’s sinful actions. Yet he remained faithful, even in prison, knowing his purpose had been fulfilled.
John the Baptist’s life was one of humility, courage, and devotion. He never sought glory for himself but pointed everyone to Jesus. His story reminds us that our greatest calling is to prepare the way for Christ through our words, actions, and hearts.